New Jersey Assembly Bill A2166

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22

Caption

Provides procedures for crediting certain dwellings used by agricultural workers in determination of municipality's fair share housing obligation.

Impact

This bill significantly affects the way municipalities in New Jersey approach their housing needs calculations. By including dwellings for seasonal farm workers in the fair share housing obligation credits, municipalities can better manage their compliance burdens. The bill addresses the unique housing needs of low- and moderate-income agricultural workers, in acknowledgment of the fact that traditional market-rate housing does not adequately serve this demographic, which often has lower income levels. As such, the legislation aims to ensure that agricultural workers are provided with affordable housing options without unduly increasing the municipalities' housing responsibilities.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 2166 introduces provisions aimed at assisting municipalities in New Jersey to meet their fair share affordable housing obligations, particularly concerning dwellings used by agricultural workers, such as migrant and seasonal farm workers. Specifically, the bill allows municipalities to credit housing units built for the use of these workers against their calculated housing obligations. This provision recognizes that housing provided for agricultural laborers contributes to the overall availability of affordable housing within local jurisdictions.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a positive step towards enhancing affordable housing for agricultural workers, it has also been met with some contention. Critics may argue that this could create imbalances in local housing policies, shifting the housing obligations rather than expanding overall housing availability. Furthermore, there might be concerns over the accountability in ensuring the quality and accessibility of these housing units as agricultural roles can often have transient populations. Some stakeholders would insist on the importance of stringent guidelines and oversight mechanisms to validate the housing conditions and living standards provided to these workers.