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Bill > S4214
NJ S4214
NJ S4214Increases FY2025 Grants-in-Aid appropriation to DCA for "NJSHARES - S.M.A.R.T. Program" by $5 million.
summary
Introduced
03/03/2025
03/03/2025
In Committee
03/03/2025
03/03/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill amends the FY 2025 Appropriations Act to increase the Grants-in-Aid appropriation to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for NJSHARES - S.M.A.R.T. Program by $5 million, from $5.5 million to $10.5 million, to fund utility assistance for homeowners and tenants of residential property throughout the State suffering financial difficulties. The bill directs the commissioner to design and establish program criteria and guidelines consistent with the bill in order to award grants to eligible homeowners and tenants in an expeditious manner to enable them to comply with their utilities obligations. To be eligible for a grant under this program a homeowner or tenant may not be eligible for, or a recipient of funding from, private insurance or from any other available funding opportunity. The bill authorizes the commissioner to implement this program through the award of contracts, or through the delegation of its authority to award grants, to private nonprofit organizations, public agencies, or both.
AI Summary
This bill increases the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriation for the New Jersey SHARES (Statewide Mobility and Assistance Recovery Emergency Services) S.M.A.R.T. Program by $5 million, raising the total funding from $5.5 million to $10.5 million. The additional funds will be drawn from the Universal Service Fund and dedicated to providing utility payment assistance to homeowners and tenants experiencing financial hardships across New Jersey. The bill authorizes the Commissioner of Community Affairs to design program guidelines and award grants, potentially through contracts with nonprofit organizations or public agencies. To qualify for assistance, applicants must not be receiving funding from private insurance or other sources that would duplicate benefits. The program aims to help eligible residents meet their utility obligations by providing timely financial support, with the commissioner having discretion to establish criteria for grant distribution. The legislation takes effect immediately upon enactment.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 03/03/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4214 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S4500/4214_I1.HTM |
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