This bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) continuously maintain an open enrollment period for rental assistance applicants to submit pre-applications for the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program. This program, authorized under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937, provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. The bill aims to ensure that applicants have ongoing access to the waiting list for this vital assistance program.

The legislation will take effect on the first day of the third month following its enactment, although the commissioner is permitted to undertake any necessary administrative actions in advance to facilitate its implementation. This continuous open enrollment period is intended to improve access to housing assistance for those in need, thereby addressing housing insecurity in the state.