New Jersey Senate Bill S1096

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Provides that cooperative sober living residences are inherently beneficial uses.

Impact

The inclusion of cooperative sober living residences as inherently beneficial uses under state law is intended to facilitate their establishment in various communities. By easing restrictions on zoning, the bill aims to create more housing opportunities that support recovery efforts. This legislative change is positioned as a necessary step toward combating the addiction crisis facing New Jersey, where access to supportive housing can significantly influence recovery outcomes for individuals seeking help.

Summary

Senate Bill S1096 seeks to amend the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law to include cooperative sober living residences as inherently beneficial uses. This designation is significant because it presumes that such residences meet the positive criteria for the grant of a use variance, simplifying the process for establishing these residences. Advocates of the bill argue that it addresses the growing need for supportive housing options for individuals recovering from addiction, a critical concern in light of the state's ongoing challenges with substance use disorders.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill may face opposition regarding community concerns about the integration of such residences in local neighborhoods. Critics may argue that changes to zoning laws to favor sober living facilities could lead to challenges such as increased traffic or changes in neighborhood character. Balancing the needs for supportive housing with community interests will likely be a point of contention in discussions surrounding the implementation of this bill.