New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S1177

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would enhance consumer protection laws in New Jersey by formalizing efforts to combat real estate rental fraud. The Department of Law and Public Safety, through the Division of Consumer Affairs, will be tasked with developing educational tools and resources, which will be accessible in both English and Spanish. This initiative is expected to empower consumers, allowing them to make informed decisions when engaging in rental agreements, thus potentially reducing incidents of fraud.

Summary

Senate Bill S1177, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, directs the Division of Consumer Affairs to establish a public information campaign targeting real estate rental scams. This campaign aims to inform and educate consumers on how to identify and report such scams, which have become increasingly prevalent in today's housing market. The bill recognizes that potential renters often face deceptive practices that lead to financial loss, prompting the need for awareness and preventative measures.

Contention

While the bill seeks to provide valuable resources to the public, there may be debates regarding the sufficiency of the campaign's reach and effectiveness. Critics could argue about the funding and resources allocated to this public information campaign, questioning whether they will be adequate for a comprehensive state-wide initiative. Furthermore, stakeholders in the real estate industry might have differing opinions on the bill's implications for their operations, as it addresses rampant issues related to consumer deception.

Companion Bills

NJ A2504

Same As Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

NJ A3081

Carry Over Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3081

Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

NJ A2504

Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

NJ A5513

Directs BPU to establish public information campaign concerning public utility meter inspection and calibration.

NJ S4282

Prohibits sweepstakes model of wagering; establishes new penalties for unlawful gambling operations and practices; directs Division of Consumer Affairs and Division of Gaming Enforcement to enforce penalties.

NJ A5447

Prohibits sweepstakes model of wagering; establishes new penalties for unlawful gambling operations and practices; directs Division of Consumer Affairs and Division of Gaming Enforcement to enforce penalties.

NJ A5497

Directs DCA to establish grants division to oversee grant administration, establish grants application portal, and implement public information campaign.

NJ S3659

Limits amount of residential rental property application fee; establishes penalty.

NJ A409

Establishes public awareness campaign concerning the dangers of leaving children unattended in and around motor vehicles.

NJ S4288

Establishes "Virtual Currency Kiosk Consumer Protection Act."

NJ A1062

Directs MVC to establish public information campaign concerning certain motorized vehicles; establishes 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for certain motorized vehicles.

Similar Bills

NJ A2504

Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

NJ A3081

Directs Division of Consumer Affairs to establish public information campaign concerning real estate rental scams.

NJ A5277

Establishes public awareness campaign and call center for certain property tax relief programs; requires submission of annual report by Stay NJ Task Force.

NJ S4368

Establishes public awareness campaign and call center for certain property tax relief programs; requires submission of annual report by Stay NJ Task Force.

NJ A5426

Requires State domestic violence public awareness campaign to add information on coercive control; requires annual reporting on activities of campaign and expands range of languages.

NJ A5363

Establishes public awareness campaign concerning risks of gambling and resources available to compulsive gamblers; appropriates $200,000.

NJ S3344

Establishes public awareness campaign concerning risks of gambling and resources available to compulsive gamblers; appropriates $200,000.

TX HB2770

Relating to the powers and duties of navigation districts, port authorities, and certain municipalities.