New Jersey Assembly Bill A5924

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/24/25
• Refer: 7/24/25

Caption

Concerns protection of tenants displaced by fire.

Impact

This bill has a significant impact on state laws by ensuring that tenants displaced by fire receive similar protections and assistance as those displaced by other emergencies. If enacted, tenants will have a legal right to return to their dwelling once repairs are completed, and to do so under conditions equal to or better than prior to the fire. Additionally, tenants could apply for reduced rent during the period their unit remains uninhabitable, ensuring that financial strain is minimized while they await repairs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5924 focuses on the protection of tenants who are displaced due to fire damage. It amends the Relocation Assistance Act, which previously provided assistance to tenants displaced by various emergencies. The bill broadens this definition to explicitly include tenants who have to vacate their homes as a result of fire, making it a stipulation that such tenants shall be considered 'displaced persons' under the Act, thereby granting them access to relocation assistance normally offered to other displaced persons.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A5924 may arise from landlords and property owners who might argue that the added protections could create burdens in managing rental properties following a fire. There may be concerns regarding the impact of longer repair timelines and financial compensation that may be claimed by displaced tenants who are denied their right to return. However, support for the bill is likely to stem from housing advocates who emphasize the importance of safeguarding tenant rights and providing necessary assistance during crises.