Some illegal immigrants to New York may be denied emergency housing resources due to a change in state practice. 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced Friday that the city’s infamous “right to shelter” policy — which mandates a bed be provided for any individual who requires it — would be significantly rolled back.

Under the new terms, individuals would have a right to 30 days of housing services upon entry into the city’s aid system. 

Mayor Eric Adams, flanked by his Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright (L) and Ingrid Lewis-Martin, are pictured during his weekly in person press conference at City Hall Blue Room. ((Luiz C. Ribeiro/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty Images))

While the compromise puts limits on the “right to shelter” for individuals, it also mandates housing officials work to render as much procedural and material aid as possible during the month of housing provided. 

The New York City system must help searching for a location to permanently rehouse each migrant while in its care. Expected efforts include arranging meetings with immigration lawyers and applying for resettlement programs.

Adams sought to completely end the “right to shelter” requirement in October 2023, citing a state of emergency due to the influx of migrants. 

Migrants line up outside a migrant re-ticketing center at St. Brigid School on E. 7th St. in Manhattan, New York City. 

The Legal Aid Society, a non-profit civil legal group, challenged the attempt and helped negotiate the current deal.

“The reasonable plan outlined in this settlement significantly enhances the city’s ability to manage the extraordinary influx of people that have come into our care and will help stabilize our shelter system for those who need it,” said New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix, according to Politico.

The change comes in the face of overwhelming illegal immigration to New York City — an influx of migrants that has strained the city infrastructure to its breaking point.