TRENTON, NJ — Assemblyman Kenyatta Stewart (D-Bergen, Passaic) has introduced legislation to help connect domestic violence survivors with safe, temporary housing while incentivizing property owners to participate.

The bill establishes a public-private partnership to help survivors quickly transition from crisis situations to stable housing. Under the program, housing providers who offer reduced rental rates to survivors would be eligible for tax credits, helping offset the cost of participation.

“This bill is about giving survivors a real pathway to safety and stability,” said Assemblyman Stewart. “Too often, individuals leaving abusive situations are forced into shelters or left without options. We need to create a system that moves people from crisis to housing quickly, safely, and with dignity.”

The legislation establishes a statewide registry of available housing units and requires coordination with local domestic violence agencies to ensure placements are handled efficiently and appropriately. Survivors facing urgent situations would receive priority placement, with the program aiming to secure housing within 24 to 48 hours in emergency cases.

Participating property owners would be required to provide units at least 30 percent below market value for a period ranging from 30 to 180 days. In return, they would receive tax credits of up to $3,000 per housing unit annually, with a statewide cap of $15 million per year.

“By partnering with property owners and leveraging existing housing, we can expand access without building new infrastructure or increasing long-term costs,” Stewart added. “This is a smart, compassionate solution that supports survivors while making efficient use of resources.”

This legislation builds on Assemblyman Stewart’s ongoing efforts to support survivors of domestic violence. Earlier this year, he introduced legislation to create an alternative pathway for survivors to obtain identification, helping remove one of the most common barriers to accessing housing, employment, and critical services.

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