Trenton, NJ – The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network) applauds the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly for voting to pass both the Code Red legislation and the Municipal Homeless Trust Fund bill. The critical, complementary measures that protect and support New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents now head to Governor Phil Murphy’s desk for his signature.

For over five years, the Network and its members have championed statewide Code Red protections to ensure people experiencing homelessness and housing instability are not left exposed to extreme heat, poor air quality, and other increasingly dangerous climate conditions. At the same time, advocates have worked to secure sustainable local funding to address homelessness at the municipal level. The Legislature’s passage of both bills represents a significant and long-overdue step forward.

“This is a moment to celebrate,” said Matthew Hersh, vice president of policy and advocacy for the Network. “Code Red and the municipal homeless trust fund go hand in hand and together, they reflect a compassionate, common-sense approach that prioritizes human dignity, saves lives during climate emergencies, and gives communities the tools they need to respond effectively.”

For their steadfast commitment to protecting residents most at risk, the Network thanks both bill sponsors including Senators Shirley Turner and Angela McKnight and Assembly Housing Chair Yvonne Lopez, Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy on Code Red and Senate President Nicholas Scutari and Assemblymembers Linda Carter, Annette Quijano, and Al Abdelaziz on the Municipal Homeless Trust Fund. The Network also thanks the members of the Senate and Assembly for advancing these critical measures and delivering them to the Governor’s desk.

Each day, Network members and housing advocates are on the front lines providing life-saving resources and supporting residents struggling with housing. As climate change continues to intensify extreme weather and environmental hazards, Code Red establishes essential statewide protections, while the municipal homeless trust fund ensures long-term, locally driven solutions.

“We are thrilled to be on the cusp of seeing these protections become law,” Hersh added. “We urge Governor Murphy to sign both bills and make clear that New Jersey is committed to protecting its most vulnerable residents, today and in the years ahead.”

About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is the statewide association of more than 270 community development corporations, individuals and other organizations that support the creation of affordable homes, economic opportunities, and strong communities. For more information on the Network, visit www.hcdnnj.org.

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