TRENTON, N.J. — Municipalities that meet affordable housing requirements will now receive priority consideration for certain state grants and financial programs under a new law signed by Gov. Phil Murphy.
The measure, S-2506, sponsored by Sen. Renee Burgess and Sen. Shirley K. Turner, directs the Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to give priority status to towns in compliance with affordable housing obligations when awarding grants or financial assistance.
The provisions apply to programs such as the Main Street New Jersey Program, the Neighborhood Preservation Program, and any other DCA or EDA-administered program that distributes competitive funding to municipalities. The law does not apply to grants or assistance designed to help towns meet their initial affordable housing requirements.
To determine compliance during the first five years after a new round of obligations begins, the DCA may consider prior fair share settlements, builder’s remedy lawsuits, the percentage of fulfilled obligations — including whether certificates of occupancy were issued for new affordable units — and other factors deemed relevant.
“Housing is a need, not a want,” said Senator Burgess (D-Essex/Union). “No New Jerseyan should be struggling to find affordable housing, especially in an environment where everyday expenses are skyrocketing due to rising inflation. By signing this bill into law, we can ensure New Jersey will continue to be a fair, equitable place to live for years to come.”
“Every family deserves the dignity of a safe, affordable home,” said Senator Turner (D-Hunterdon/Mercer). “This law helps ensure that no matter where you live in New Jersey, towns are doing their party to open doors for working people, seniors, and young families. It’s a step toward greater equity and opportunity for everyone in our state.”
