1.   And many landlords are expected to begin eviction proceedings against loft tenants as soon as the law lapses, real estate lawyers and tenant advocates said.

2.   If the laws expire, that could create immediate legal problems for loft tenants, though none of them are likely to be evicted anytime soon.

3.   One issue that propelled the budget talks to completion on Wednesday night was the expiration of a state law that protects thousands of loft tenants in New York City.

4.   Pataki acknowledged Wednesday that the loft tenants might suffer because of his choice.

5.   Protections for New York City loft tenants expired, terrifying many long-term residents with limited incomes.

6.   So each day a band of loft tenants arrives with pamphlets, buttons and fliers, pleading with the governor to pass a final extension of the law.

7.   The Legislature also extended for one week a law that protects thousands of loft tenants in New York City.

8.   They also agreed to extend for four days a law protecting thousands of loft tenants in New York City while negotiations continue this week on the budget.