This bill establishes the Interagency Council on Homelessness, which will replace the existing New Jersey Homelessness Prevention Task Force. The council is created to serve as an advisory body to the Office of Homelessness Prevention within the Department of Community Affairs. Its primary purpose is to develop recommendations through collaboration among state government representatives, service providers, and advocacy organizations, focusing on effective coordination and funding for programs that assist individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The bill also expands the council's membership from 15 to 24 members, including various state officials and public members with relevant expertise or experience.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Commissioner of Community Affairs to inform the members of the terminated task force about its dissolution and to manage the transfer of records, property, and personnel to the new council. The council is required to prepare and submit an annual report detailing its findings, conclusions, and recommendations to both the Governor and the Legislature. This legislative change aims to enhance the state's response to homelessness by fostering a more coordinated and effective approach to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-287.6