This bill mandates the Division of Housing and Community Resources within the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to collaborate with State agencies and statewide nonprofit energy assistance organizations to create a consolidated, user-friendly online application for residential utility assistance programs. Each involved entity is required to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the DCA to facilitate the development of this application, which will also include provisions for integrating temporary financial assistance programs for utility bill payments or energy efficiency measures.
Additionally, the bill empowers the DCA to adopt necessary rules and regulations under the "Administrative Procedure Act" to implement its provisions effectively. The overall goal is to streamline the application process for residents seeking utility assistance, making it more accessible and efficient.