Assembly Advances Legislation to Streamline Access to Utility Assistance
Bill would consolidate applications for residential utility assistance programs
TRENTON— The New Jersey General Assembly recently passed legislation that would require State agencies and nonprofit partners to offer a consolidated, one-stop application for all residential utility assistance programs — cutting through the red tape that too often overwhelms residents in crisis.
Assemblyman Chris Tully, Assemblywoman Andrea Katz and Assemblyman Balvir Singh sponsored Bill A5435 to facilitate the process.
“Through A5435, we are ensuring that New Jersey families and individuals can access a simple, user-friendly online application that brings together various utility assistance programs in one place,” said Assemblyman Tully (D-Bergen). “Hard-working New Jerseyans deserve access to these resources, and they should be able to apply for them quickly and easily. The bill would also ensure that State agencies help develop and update the application, so that even temporary aid programs are accessible.”
Bill A5435 would make it easier for ratepayers to apply for help paying their utility bills. Specifically, the bill would direct State agencies and nonprofits to contract with the Division of Housing and Community Resources in the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) if they administer their own utility assistance program. Together, they would establish a consolidated, user-friendly website-based application for residential utility assistance programs on the DCA’s website.
“Too many South Jersey families are struggling to keep up with rising utility costs,” said Assemblywoman Katz (D-Atlantic, Burlington). “I am committed to cutting red tape and improving access to assistance. A5435 does just that, by establishing a single, streamlined application, making it faster and easier for residents to get the help they need.”
There are currently several different utility assistance programs, creating a confusing and time-consuming process for applicants. This often leads to families and individuals missing out on the help for which they are eligible. A5435 would reduce that complexity by ensuring all participating agencies and nonprofits work under an easy-to-use digital application.
“Establishing a single, user-friendly application for all our residential utility assistance programs on the Department of Community Affairs’ website would make it easier for our constituents to get the assistance they deserve and need,” said Assemblyman Singh (D-Burlington). “It is absolutely necessary for our State agencies and nonprofit energy assistance organizations to collaborate, because we all have a common purpose—to ensure that our residents are taken care of and have everything they need to pay their utility bills.”
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