Bill > A609

This bill, known as the "Home-Based Jobs Creation Act," aims to support individuals working from home by classifying certain "family home businesses"—activities operated for profit within a residence by resident family members—as "accessory uses." This means they will be permitted in residential zones without needing a special permit called a "use variance," which is a lengthy and often difficult approval process. The bill acknowledges the growing trend of home-based work due to economic changes and technological advancements, noting that many such businesses operate in violation of outdated local rules. To ensure these businesses can thrive while respecting residential neighborhoods, the bill sets specific criteria they must meet, such as being compatible with the area, not employing outside workers (unless a municipality allows it), not having an outward appearance of a business, and not creating excessive traffic, noise, or waste. While promoting home-based businesses, the bill also empowers municipalities to create their own ordinances to limit or prohibit specific activities like manufacturing, warehousing, or retailing if they are deemed incompatible with residential zones, and it clarifies that municipalities retain their power to protect public health and safety.