Bill > S4939

This bill provides protections for certain residents during a federal government shutdown by allowing the Governor to issue an executive order preventing evictions and foreclosures for specific groups. The bill defines an "eligible resident" as a federal government employee who is furloughed or working without pay during a shutdown, or a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly known as food stamps). A "federal government shutdown" is defined as a lapse in government funding lasting more than 24 hours due to congressional disagreement. Under this legislation, the Governor can issue an order preventing eligible residents from being removed from residential properties (including houses, buildings, mobile homes, and rental properties, but excluding hotels and seasonal rentals) as a result of eviction or foreclosure proceedings. The executive order would remain in effect for up to one month after the shutdown ends. Eviction and foreclosure proceedings can still be initiated, but the enforcement of removal orders would be stayed, with exceptions for cases where a court determines enforcement is necessary in the interest of justice or when the eviction is not related to nonpayment or late payment of rent. Sheriffs and court officers would be prohibited from removing individuals from residential properties during the period of the executive order, except in the specified exceptional circumstances.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4939