This bill allows municipalities in New Jersey to adopt ordinances permitting a single exit stairway for new residential buildings classified as Group R-2 occupancy, which includes structures with sleeping units or more than two dwelling units primarily occupied by permanent residents. The bill specifies that this single exit stairway can serve buildings of up to six stories, and the first floor may be designated for non-residential use, provided that such use is classified as nonhazardous by the Commissioner of Community Affairs and has separate entrances from the residential floors. The provisions of this bill will only apply to new development applications submitted after its effective date.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Commissioner of Community Affairs to create and publish a regulatory guidance document that includes a model ordinance for municipalities to follow when implementing this new stairwell requirement. The bill is set to take effect four months after its enactment, although the Commissioner is allowed to take necessary anticipatory actions to implement its provisions.