TOP COURT UPHOLDS 'DRUG-DEAL' EVICTIONS IN PUBLIC HOUSING

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously yesterday that public
housing tenants can be evicted for drug use by relatives and guests - a
decision that could mean a tougher crackdown in New York.

The decision upholds former President Bill Clinton's "one strike and you're
out" policy, instituted in 1996, allowing eviction even if the tenants
don't know their kids or guests are using drugs.

Until now, the New York City Housing Authority has taken a "case-by-case"
approach to enforcing the policy for its 181,000 units housing 425,000
tenants, said spokesman Howard Marder.

"When the individual facts warrant, we may evict the entire family, but
sometimes we [agree] to exclude the offending member," he added.

He said he's sure families have been evicted for drug use, but could give
no specific instances or figures on enforcement.

U.S. Assistant Housing Secretary Michael Liu told The Post the ruling sets
the stage for tougher enforcement, adding: "The key is to ensure that there
is a consequence, a significant consequence, to the household."