The bipartisan New Jersey Legislative Disability Caucus recently met. Specifically, lawmakers, state officials, housing experts, and advocates gathered. Ultimately, they addressed a critical issue: New Jersey’s shortage of affordable, supportive housing for people with disabilities.
Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald serves as Caucus Co-Chair. During the session, he highlighted two key legislative proposals. First, the New Jersey Housing Opportunity Act (A4956) helps towns create affordable housing via Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Second, A2757 encourages towns to turn empty office parks into mixed-use communities with affordable homes.
In addition, state officials discussed ways to cut housing wait times. For instance, they highlighted portable housing subsidies. As a result, these funds support permanent supportive housing projects.
“Access to affordable, accessible housing remains a major challenge for people with disabilities in New Jersey,” said Mercedes Witowsky, Executive Director of the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities. Consequently, she noted that the caucus will keep pushing for policy solutions that expand housing and boost independence.
About the New Jersey Legislative Disability Caucus
Formed in December 2020, the Caucus is a bipartisan forum within the New Jersey Legislature for lawmakers and their staff to consider the impact on the disability community when shaping all public policies in the Garden State. The Caucus is co-chaired by Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz (D-29), Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald (D6), Senator Anthony Bucco (R-25), and Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (R-25). Participation in the Caucus is open to all legislators who agree to be champions for individuals with disabilities in New Jersey by meeting with them in their district offices, participating in quarterly education forums, and promoting policies to improve the lives of people with disabilities and their families. People with disabilities, their families, and organizations that serve, support, and advocate for people with disabilities in the Garden State serve as a resource for the NJ Legislative Disability Caucus. For more information about the Caucus and to get involved, visit njcdd.org/legislative-disability-caucus.
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