This bill expands the requirements for memoranda of understanding between the Division of Housing and Community Resources in the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and State agencies as well as Statewide nonprofit energy assistance organizations. The new language mandates that these organizations, which provide financial assistance for utility bill payments or energy efficiency measures, must collaborate with the DCA to create a consolidated, user-friendly Internet application for these programs. This is a significant change from current law, which only required memoranda with organizations administering their own programs.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of integrating temporary financial assistance programs into the consolidated application form, ensuring that the DCA is informed of any such programs that the organizations may be directed to administer. The DCA is also tasked with adopting necessary rules and regulations to implement this act effectively. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the application process for residential utility assistance, making it more accessible for customers in need.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-9.5