WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 391

Revises "Homelessness Prevention Program"; requires new charge for filing of eviction action.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Cryan and 3 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill creates filing fee for eviction actions to fund homelessness prevention services, generating revenue while potentially discouraging housing loss litigation.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 391

Legislative bill overview

S 391 revises New Jersey's Homelessness Prevention Program and introduces a new filing fee for eviction actions. The bill appears designed to generate revenue that would support homelessness prevention services while creating a financial barrier or cost to those initiating evictions.

Why is this important

Homelessness prevention programs help keep vulnerable populations housed and reduce strain on emergency services and shelters. This bill attempts to fund such efforts through eviction filing fees, directly linking the cost of housing loss prevention to those initiating evictions—a policy approach that affects both landlords and tenants experiencing housing instability.

Potential points of contention

  • Impact on landlords: A new filing fee may disproportionately burden small property owners or landlords already managing tight margins, potentially affecting housing availability or rental prices
  • Effectiveness of prevention vs. deterrence: It's unclear whether the fee discourages frivolous evictions or simply transfers costs that may ultimately impact tenants through higher rents
  • Program design ambiguity: The bill's text doesn't detail how revenue will be allocated, eligibility criteria for prevention assistance, or whether the fee amount is proportionate to actual program costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.