Redd Statement On The Signing Of The Affordable Housing Reform Bill

REDD STATEMENT ON THE SIGNING OF THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING REFORM BILL

MOUNT LAUREL – Senator Dana L. Redd, D-Camden and Gloucester, a sponsor of S-1783/A-500, legislation that revises the Fair Housing Act to require municipalities to offer affordable housing options, today released the following statement and applauded Governor Corzine for making the bill’s provisions a reality. The bill signing was held at the Ethel R. Lawrence Homes.

“It is interesting that New Jersey, one of the nation's most ethnically and economically diverse states, is also one of the most segregated. For far too long, wealthier municipalities have been able to pass on their responsibility to provide affordable housing options by paying local urban centers to take on their obligations through the use of Regional Contribution Agreements (RCAs).

“This isn’t just an issue of reducing overcrowding in our cities; it’s also about making sure that growth is fair and balanced. Towns that are able to sustain growth, should make sure that they are willing to welcome new residents from all walks of life. Household income is not an indicator of a family’s worth, and it’s time a number of our higher income, suburban municipalities took notice of that fact.

“Without reasonably priced housing, we make it more difficult for New Jersey’s young adults, seniors and working families to afford to stay in our state.

“Part of New Jersey's beauty is in its diversity, and the signing of this legislation sends a clear message that we're fighting to erase the line between the 'haves' and 'have-nots,' by making our municipalities a better reflection of the different groups who call New Jersey home.”

JASON BUTKOWSKI can be reached via email at JButkowski@njleg.org.