Bill > A3282

This bill revises the Homelessness Prevention Program by establishing detailed eligibility criteria for assistance and creating a new $75 fee for filing eviction actions. The bill defines who can receive help under the program, including New Jersey residents who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness due to eviction, mortgage foreclosure, or inability to pay rent or mortgage. Eligibility is restricted based on income (must be under 80% of area median income), available resources, and other factors. The bill prioritizes assistance for vulnerable populations like disabled individuals, seniors, domestic violence victims, and households with children. For homeowners facing foreclosure, assistance will be provided as a secured loan with specific limitations. The new $75 eviction filing fee (which cannot be passed on to tenants) will be collected and transferred to the Office of Eviction Prevention to fund services like rental assistance, social services, and legal support. The legislation aims to discourage unnecessary eviction filings by increasing the cost and encouraging alternative communication between landlords and tenants, while simultaneously providing more robust prevention and support services for those at risk of losing their housing.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A3282