New Jersey Assembly Bill A5246

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Refer: 3/20/23

Caption

Requires expanded use of affordable housing voucher program funding for homeownership expense assistance.

Impact

The proposed changes will require the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to allocate a portion of its funding for the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) toward establishing a comparable program to the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. Local housing authorities administering the federal Section 8 program will also be mandated to implement this additional homeownership program, enhancing their capacity to support residents aiming for homeownership. This move is positioned as part of broader efforts to combat homelessness and increase affordable housing options in New Jersey.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5246 seeks to expand the utilization of affordable housing voucher program funding specifically for homeownership expense assistance. This legislation intends to enhance the affordability of homeownership for low-income individuals and households by allowing them to apply housing vouchers towards mortgage-related expenses. This adjustment will supplement existing rental assistance programs by including homeownership as a viable option for voucher holders, thus promoting stability and reducing reliance on rental housing.

Contention

Key points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of resources and the effectiveness of these programs. Critiques could focus on whether expanding voucher usage for homeownership detracts from rental assistance availability, particularly for individuals and families currently struggling to secure stable housing. Additionally, there could be discussions on the sufficiency of funding and administrative support for adequately rolling out this program across local housing authorities, and whether it effectively addresses the systemic issues influencing housing affordability in New Jersey.