This bill supplements the FY2026 Appropriations Act by appropriating an additional $10 million from the off-budget Universal Service Fund to the NJSHARES S.M.A.R.T. Program, which provides utility payment assistance, including assistance for utility arrearages. This addition comes on top of a previously allocated $5 million from the General Fund for the same program. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Community Affairs establish criteria and guidelines for the program to ensure that grants are awarded efficiently to eligible homeowners and tenants facing financial difficulties.

To qualify for assistance under the NJSHARES S.M.A.R.T. Program, applicants must not be eligible for or receiving funding from private insurance or any other sources that could be considered a duplication of benefits. This provision aims to streamline the support provided to those in need while preventing overlapping financial assistance. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.