Passed Bill Designed to Benefit People with Limited Mobility in Need of Accessible Housing

 The Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee, on September 29, 2022, passed legislation sponsored by Senator Brian Stack and Senator Andrew Zwicker that would assist residents with limited mobility who are in need of accessible housing.

"Residents with limited mobility already struggle to find adequate housing that fits their needs, with accessible housing often being hard to come by," said Senator Stack. "By giving priority to senior citizens and residents with certain disabilities to move to a dwelling located on a lower floor, we can ease the stress that comes with moving and better ensure their safety." 

The bill, S-183, would require owners of a multiple dwelling residential building that is three floors or more to provide priority status for senior citizens and residents with certain disabilities to move to a lower floor. If the qualifying residents deny the option to move, non-qualifying residents seeking a dwelling on a lower floor will have the opportunity to do so. 

"For senior citizens and residents with disabilities that hinder their mobility, living on a lower floor is essential to making their lives a little easier, as elevators can be unreliable and stairs can be difficult to climb," said Senator Zwicker. "This bill would be an important step to enhance the quality of life for our residents with additional needs." 

Learn more about housing for people with disabilities HERE.

Senate President Scutari Swears-In New Senator  

Sworn into office by Senate President Nicholas Scutari, Senator Renee Burgess is to serve the 28th Legislative District. 

"I welcome Renee Burgess to the New Jersey Senate. Senator Burgess brings a wealth of experience in the public and private sectors and possesses an understanding of government from her service in elected and appointed positions," said Senate President Scutari.   

Senator Burgess will serve on the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee and the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. She has also been appointed to the Joint Committee on Housing Affordability, the Joint Committee on the Public Schools, and the Joint Committee on Economic Justice and Equal Employment Opportunities.