New Jersey Assembly Bill A4102

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/2/22
• Refer: 3/20/23

Caption

Permits for-profit affordable housing entities to join with non-profit entities and housing authorities in joint insurance funds under certain circumstances.

Impact

By clearly defining 'for-profit affordable housing entity', the bill opens pathways for these organizations to participate in collective insurance initiatives, which could lead to reduced operational risks and potentially lower insurance costs. The amendment to existing law ensures that, despite their profit-oriented approach, these entities can still contribute to and benefit from the collective insurance framework intended for the wider community. As such, the bill is poised to potentially affect the dynamics of how affordable housing is managed and financed within the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4102 introduces provisions that permit for-profit affordable housing entities to establish or join joint insurance funds alongside non-profit housing entities and housing authorities. This legislative effort aims to enhance the capacity and reach of affordable housing providers by granting them new collaborative insurance options that are currently only available to non-profit entities and certain local governments. The bill strives to support the administration and sustainability of low-to-moderate income housing developments that meet specific criteria outlined in the Fair Housing Act.

Contention

Notably, the legislation includes stipulations preventing for-profit entities from joining insurance funds that consist of local units such as municipalities or fire districts, which could be a point of contention among different stakeholders in the housing sector. Critics may raise concerns regarding the implications of such arrangements on local governance and the broader market for affordable housing, especially considering that these entities are typically motivated by profit which might conflict with the social objectives of housing initiatives. The separation of for-profit and local governmental entities in matters of insurance could lead to debates over equity and accessibility in housing resources.