New Jersey Assembly Bill A3290

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Allows certain senior citizens to apply for rent increase limit.

Impact

The act specifically aims to prevent displacement of senior citizens who have resided in their rental homes for many years and are often unable to move due to physical limitations. By establishing a framework for rent increase limits, the legislation provides financial security to vulnerable seniors, ensuring they can afford their housing without substantial increases that exceed their income adjustments. Additionally, landlords will be required to notify the Department of Community Affairs when a tenant is granted this protected status.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3290, also known as the 'Senior Citizen Tenant Protection Act,' is designed to protect senior citizens aged 55 and older from excessive rent increases. The bill allows eligible seniors to apply for a status that ensures their rent increases are capped based on an annual index rate. This rate is determined by 75% of the increase in the consumer price index applicable to their county, thereby ensuring that their rent does not outpace their income, especially for those on fixed pensions and social security benefits.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from the balance of landlord interests against tenant protections. While the bill aims to alleviate financial burdens on seniors, landlords facing economic hardships may seek waivers for exceeding the established rent increase limits. The criteria for granting waiver requests will hinge on the landlord's ability to demonstrate undue hardship, thus opening up discussions about what constitutes fair treatment for both parties. Critics may argue that the regulations could unintentionally impose limits on housing market dynamics and landlords’ ability to maintain their properties.