This bill amends Section 19 of P.L.1975, c.291 (C.40:55D-28) to enhance the requirements for the land use and housing plan elements of municipal master plans in New Jersey. It introduces a detailed housing plan element that must assess the need for housing, including affordable options, and outline strategies for their provision. The housing plan is required to analyze the existing housing inventory, project future housing stock, evaluate demographic characteristics, and consider local economic factors affecting housing supply. Additionally, the bill mandates a climate change-related hazard vulnerability assessment and a strategy statement focused on smart growth and environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the relationship between the land use and housing plan elements, ensuring they work in tandem. It removes outdated language and introduces new requirements, such as the inclusion of public electric vehicle charging infrastructure and military facility considerations. The bill also reallocates certain previously required factors from section 10 of P.L.1985, c.222 to section 19 of P.L.1975, c.291, aiming to clarify municipal obligations regarding the housing plan element. Overall, these changes are designed to improve the coordination between housing and land use planning, thereby promoting the development of affordable housing in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:55D-28, 52:27D-304, 52:27D-310