This bill mandates the Division of Housing and Community Resources within the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to collaborate with State agencies and nonprofit organizations that provide financial assistance for residential utility bills. Specifically, it requires these entities to enter into memoranda of understanding to create a consolidated, user-friendly application form available on the DCA's website. The bill emphasizes the importance of integrating temporary financial assistance programs into this consolidated application, ensuring that all relevant programs are accessible to residential customers seeking utility assistance.
Additionally, the bill empowers the DCA to adopt necessary rules and regulations under the "Administrative Procedure Act" to implement its provisions effectively. This initiative aims to streamline the application process for utility assistance, making it easier for residents to access the support they need. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.