ASSEMBLY HOUSING COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 5383

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  OCTOBER 5, 2026

      The Assembly Housing Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 5383.

      As reported, this bill would require the Department of Environmental Protection (department) to modify the timelines and requirements for certain approvals associated with the development of an affordable housing project in the State.

      Specifically, the bill expedites certain review processes and approvals, including, but not limited to, water quality management plan amendments, letters of interpretations for approval of wetlands, flood hazard area verifications, flood hazard area individual permits, and sewer service areas for affordable housing projects.  Under the bill, the department would be required to update any applicable rules and regulations concerning the development of affordable housing projects to reflect the timeline modifications and requirements established in the bill.  The department would also be required to publish information related to the updated rules and regulations on its Internet website.