This bill amends the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Act to increase the Grants-in-Aid appropriation to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for the NJSHARES - S.M.A.R.T. Program by $5 million, raising the total from $5.5 million to $10.5 million. The additional funding is designated for utility payment assistance for homeowners and tenants facing financial difficulties throughout New Jersey.

The bill also outlines that the Commissioner of Community Affairs is responsible for designing and establishing program criteria and guidelines to facilitate the awarding of grants to eligible individuals. To qualify for assistance, applicants must not be receiving funding from private insurance or any other sources that would duplicate benefits. Furthermore, the commissioner is authorized to implement the program through contracts or by delegating grant-awarding authority to private nonprofit organizations or public agencies.