This bill amends the "Senior Citizens and Disabled Protected Tenancy Act" to extend the protected tenancy period for senior citizens and disabled tenants to their full lifetime, replacing the previous limit of 40 years. The legislation recognizes the detrimental effects of forced evictions on the mental and physical health of these vulnerable populations, particularly in light of rising housing costs and the economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining stable living conditions for senior citizens and disabled tenants, especially as life expectancies increase and evidence suggests that relocation can lead to declines in physical and cognitive functions.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions related to senior citizen and disabled tenants, ensuring that protections are appropriately applied. It specifies that these tenants will be entitled to fair enjoyment of their dwelling units without alterations in tenancy terms or rent increases solely due to property conversion. The act is set to take effect immediately and will apply to all tenancies in effect or entered into on or after the effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:18-61.23, 2A:18-61.24