The Immigrant Tenant Protection Act aims to enhance protections for residential tenants in New Jersey, particularly concerning their immigration and citizenship status. The bill prohibits landlords from threatening or disclosing a tenant's immigration status to influence them to vacate their dwelling. It also bars landlords from initiating eviction actions based solely or partially on a tenant's immigration status, unless such actions comply with federal programs related to rent limitations or assistance. Tenants who experience violations of these provisions can seek remedies, including actual damages, civil penalties, and attorney's fees. Additionally, the bill establishes that immigration status is irrelevant in civil actions related to housing rights, limiting inquiries into such status unless specific legal conditions are met.

Furthermore, the bill codifies the implied warranty of habitability, ensuring that all residential leases guarantee safe and livable conditions regardless of a tenant's immigration status. It provides tenants with an affirmative defense against eviction if the action is based on their immigration status or failure to provide certain identification documents after the lease has commenced. The legislation also mandates the Commissioner of Community Affairs to create and disseminate a summary of tenant and landlord rights in multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for individuals with limited English proficiency. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:42-10.10