This bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) maintain a continuous 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 can consistently apply for assistance without being restricted by specific enrollment periods.

The legislation will take effect on the first day of the third month following its enactment, although the commissioner is allowed to take any necessary administrative actions in advance to facilitate its implementation. This change is intended to improve access to rental assistance for those in need by eliminating barriers related to application timing.