N.Y. Multiple Dwelling Law § 2: Legislative finding

§ 2. Legislative finding. It is hereby declared that intensive

occupation of multiple dwelling sites, overcrowding of multiple dwelling

rooms, inadequate provision for light and air, and insufficient

protection against the defective provision for escape from fire, and

improper sanitation of multiple dwellings in certain areas of the state

are a menace to the health, safety, morals, welfare, and reasonable

comfort of the citizens of the state; and that the establishment and

maintenance of proper housing standards requiring sufficient light, air,

sanitation and protection from fire hazards are essential to the public

welfare. Therefore the provisions hereinafter prescribed are enacted

and their necessity in the public interest is hereby declared as a

matter of legislative determination.