This bill establishes a Rent Control Enforcement Unit (RCEU) within the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) in New Jersey, aimed at addressing violations of local rent restrictions. The RCEU will allow residential tenants to petition for investigations into alleged violations of rent control laws, which include ordinances or regulations that limit rent increases. The bill outlines that the RCEU will be directed by a commissioner-appointed director and will enforce penalties for violations, which may include mandatory rent reductions, financial penalties up to four months of rent, or allowing tenants to terminate their leases early. Additionally, the RCEU is tasked with creating a helpline and an online portal to assist tenants in reporting violations.

To support the RCEU's operations, the bill establishes a nonlapsing "Rent Control Enforcement Fund" and appropriates $3 million from the General Fund for its initial setup. The bill also mandates that the Legislature provide annual funding to the RCEU, considering the penalties collected. Furthermore, it requires the commissioner to adopt necessary rules and regulations within five months of the bill's enactment. The provisions of the bill will take effect on the first day of the fifth month following its enactment, with anticipatory actions allowed to ensure compliance.