Some state lawmakers are calling for a moratorium on foreclosures to prevent more Brooklyn residents from losing their homes.

The Democratic minority announced Tuesday it is working on a bill that will ease the growing problem. About 28,000 New Yorkers are currently affected by foreclosures, according to the Daily News.Experts say subprime lenders cater to low-income people with poor credit, allowing them to get homes without down payments. The lenders offer their customers variable mortgage rates that often balloon after several years, forcing homeowners into foreclosure.

Lawmakers want to pump millions into counseling programs for homeowners, and they want major lenders to voluntarily agree to a six-month moratorium on new foreclosures. Legislators also want to be able to refinance houses that are on the verge of foreclosure.

Some Bush critics say the problem escalated after legislation saying states could no longer impose strict regulations on national banks passed in 2004.Related information:Neighborhood Economic Development Advocacy ProjectCity help line: 212-669-4600