NYC Law & Legislation News

NYU Langone Reaches $8.5M DOJ Settlement in NYC

NYU Langone Health has reached an $8.5 million agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice resolving a federal investigation involving gender-affirming medical care provided to patients under 18. Under the agreement, the New York City-based health system will cease providing minors with specified treatments, including puberty blockers, hormones and surgical procedures. The resolution is part of a broader federal investigation involving hospitals and potential violations of federal health care and billing laws. NYU Langone said the agreement protects the confidentiality of patients, families and providers while avoiding prolonged litigation. The health system expressly denied wrongdoing or liability, and the Justice Department stated that the claims resolved through the agreement are allegations and that there has been no determination of liability.

NYC Makes Outdoor Dining Permanent Year-Round

New York City restaurants will now be able to operate roadway dining throughout the year under newly signed legislation eliminating seasonal restrictions on outdoor setups. The change is designed to reduce costs and regulatory burdens for restaurants that previously had to dismantle roadway structures during the winter and rebuild them in the spring. NYC transportation officials are expected to develop guidelines for winterizing outdoor dining areas, potentially making participation more practical for restaurants across the five boroughs while expanding dining options for New Yorkers year-round.

Tarter Krinsky Names Laskowitz Landlord Practice Co-Chair

Tarter Krinsky & Drogin has promoted Shari S. Laskowitz to co-chair its Landlord & Tenant Practice, adding her extensive real estate litigation experience to the group’s leadership. Since joining the firm in 2024, Laskowitz has worked on complex disputes involving landlords, tenants, property owners, co-op and condominium boards, and other real estate interests. In her new role, she will help guide the growing practice, support attorney development, and advance strategies for handling recurring and complex client matters, including through the firm’s focus on AI and innovation.

Judge Carmen Pacheco: A Brooklyn Story

Judge Carmen Pacheco has dedicated more than three decades to serving the people of New York through legal excellence, judicial leadership, and community service. A lifelong Brooklynite, she currently serves as Supervising Judge of the Civil Court of the City of New York, Kings County, while also serving as an Acting Supreme Court Justice. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to fairness, integrity, equal justice, and strengthening the communities she has served throughout her life.

Farah Louis Introduces SCRIE, DRIE Expansion

A new bill introduced by New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis would expand access to the City's SCRIE and DRIE rent freeze programs by increasing the household income eligibility limit to $75,000. The proposal aligns New York City with recently approved state legislation and is intended to help more seniors and New Yorkers with disabilities remain in their homes despite rising housing costs. Supporters say the measure would reduce displacement, strengthen housing stability, and provide financial relief to residents living on fixed or limited incomes while maintaining reimbursement protections for landlords.

NY AG James Sues Trump Admin Over Mental Health Cuts

New York Attorney General Letitia James has joined a coalition of 14 attorneys general in filing a new lawsuit to block the U.S. Department of Education from ending federal grants that support school-based mental health services. The coalition argues the administration is attempting to bypass a previous court ruling that prevented similar funding cuts by using a different legal approach. If the funding is eliminated, schools across New York could lose millions of dollars used to hire counselors, psychologists, and social workers, potentially reducing access to critical mental health services for thousands of students.

Attorney Xavier Carr: Brownsville Roots, Public Service

Attorney Xavier Carr's career reflects a longstanding commitment to the law, public service, and the Brownsville community he proudly calls home. From private practice and the New York State court system to leadership within City government and Brooklyn's legal community, his professional journey has been defined by service, integrity, and a dedication to helping others.

DeSouza Shares Why She Is Running for Civil Court

Michelle DeSouza is encouraging Brooklyn residents to learn more about the role of Civil Court judges while sharing the experiences and values that inspired her candidacy. She believes judges should combine legal knowledge with fairness, integrity, and a deep understanding of the communities they serve. DeSouza says the decisions made in Civil Court can have a lasting impact on individuals, families, tenants, homeowners, and small businesses, making judicial elections an important part of local democracy.