The bill amends the "Homelessness Prevention Program" under the "Prevention of Homelessness Act (1984)" to refine eligibility criteria and assistance provisions for New Jersey residents facing homelessness. It specifies that only individuals who are either homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness due to eviction, mortgage foreclosure, or inability to pay rent or mortgage are eligible for aid. The legislation also establishes disqualifying criteria, such as exceeding a certain income threshold or having unresolved financial issues with the program. Assistance for those facing foreclosure will be provided as a secured loan, with the total amount capped at 600 percent of the monthly applicable "payment standard" based on family size.

Additionally, the bill introduces a $75 filing fee for eviction actions, which will be directed to the Office of Eviction Prevention to support eviction prevention services, including hiring resource navigators. This fee cannot be passed on to tenants as additional rent. The bill also mandates that landlords must cover reasonable attorney's fees for tenants who successfully defend against eviction actions. It aims to prioritize assistance for the most vulnerable applicants when funds are limited and ensures equitable access to resources across the state. The bill is set to take effect four months after enactment, with the Commissioner of Community Affairs responsible for necessary preparatory actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-280, 2A:18-61.66, 2B:1-7