NJ Governor Signs One of the Strongest Affordable Housing Laws in the US

Governor Murphy Signs Bill to Enhance Affordable Housing Access

Governor Phil Murphy has signed groundbreaking affordable housing legislation, solidifying New Jersey's commitment to creating a more accessible and equitable housing landscape. The new law marks a significant shift in how municipalities fulfill their Mount Laurel affordable housing obligations, moving away from a court-centric process to a more structured and efficient framework.

Key Highlights of the Legislation

The primary bill, A-4/S-50, establishes a streamlined system for determining and enforcing municipalities' affordable housing obligations under the Mount Laurel doctrine and the State's Fair Housing Act. Starting in 2025, the Department of Community Affairs will publish non-binding calculations of municipalities' affordable housing needs based on prior court decisions.

Dispute Resolution and Compliance

Disputes regarding affordable housing obligations and plans will be resolved through an expedited process by the Judiciary, aided by a new dispute resolution program. This approach replaces the defunct Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) and aims to reduce litigation-related delays, fostering the construction of new affordable housing units.

Benefits and Impact

The legislation aims to provide municipalities and developers with greater certainty, facilitating smarter planning and allocation of resources for affordable housing projects. By incentivizing opportunity and offering support to municipalities, the law seeks to expand housing opportunities, enhance community contributions, and bolster the state's economy.

Governor Murphy's Vision

Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of creating a national model for expanding affordable housing, ensuring lower costs, and promoting certainty in New Jersey's affordable housing landscape. The new legislation reflects a collaborative effort between the Administration and the Legislature to address housing needs comprehensively and efficiently.

The signing of this landmark legislation represents a significant step towards achieving a stronger, fairer, and more affordable housing environment in New Jersey, aligning with the state's commitment to inclusive growth and opportunity for all residents.