Assembly passes chapter amendment letting counties opt out of statewide short‑term rental registry

The New York State Assembly on the floor passed a chapter amendment to regulate short‑term rentals by shifting from a statewide Department of State registry to a county opt‑out model and directing booking platforms to report stays for counties that participate.

Sponsor Miss Romero explained that the amendment "differs from the bill previously passed" by making participation a county decision: counties that do not opt out will be able to regulate and register units, and the measure also provides for collection of sales tax on short‑term rental units statewide. "This chapter amendment differs from the bill previously passed and that these changes have the legislation work through an opt out program county by county instead of a statewide registry through the Department of State," Romero said during her explanation.

Lawmakers questioned practical effects on towns with existing registries and on tax arrangements with platforms. Supporters argued the measure restores local control while preserving the ability of municipalities to collect tax revenue. One supporter said the change "restores local control" and noted costs counties incur providing roads and services to visitors.

The bill also clarifies that preexisting agreements between booking platforms (for example, arrangements platforms already have with certain municipalities) are honored. The sponsor said booking services will report data to counties that opt in and counties may then share those data with city, town, and village governments and enforcement agencies upon request.

After debate, the clerk announced the roll call: Ayes 160, Nos 30. The bill was declared passed and will take effect immediately.