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takyon [soylentnews.org] writes:

New York State will now fine those who rent out homes and apartments illegally [bloomberg.com]:

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law that will fine residents who rent out their apartments for illegal short-term stays, striking a blow against Airbnb in one of its most important markets. Airbnb said it would file a lawsuit immediately to block the measure. The fines for those who advertise vacant apartments in a multi-unit building for 30 days or less could be as high as $7,500 for repeat offenders. Airbnb has acknowledged this rule is ignored by thousands of members. People are allowed to rent out a room in their house or apartment while they are also staying there, however.

The law will also fine residents for simply advertising an illegal rental listing [reuters.com]. Airbnb tried to offer concessions [bloomberg.com] to prevent the bill from passing. Also at ABC [go.com], ConsumerAffairs [consumeraffairs.com], and Reuters [reuters.com].

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