This bill amends the "Fair Housing Act" in New Jersey to allow municipalities to count new manufactured homes towards their affordable housing obligations. It recognizes manufactured homes as a cost-effective housing option that can be built year-round, providing an affordable alternative to traditional homes. The legislation specifies that municipalities can include the number of new manufactured homes in their calculations of affordable housing obligations, regardless of whether these homes have deed restrictions or other affordability controls. Additionally, the bill introduces a definition for "manufactured home," clarifying the criteria for these homes to be included in affordable housing calculations.

Furthermore, the bill abolishes the Council on Affordable Housing and establishes new guidelines for municipalities to seek approval for their fair share of affordable housing obligations. It emphasizes a comprehensive planning approach to meet the housing needs of low- and moderate-income families while ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the process. By allowing municipalities to count each new manufactured home as one unit of credit against their affordable housing obligation, the bill aims to enhance housing options for residents and address the pressing need for affordable housing solutions. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, applying to all new manufactured homes in the pipeline as of that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-302, 52:27D-304