NJ A5269

Establishes a Rent Control Enforcement Unit within the Department of Community Affairs to investigate tenant petitions alleging violations of local rent control, rent leveling, or rent stabilization ordinances

Authorizes penalties against landlords including mandatory rent reductions to the lowest rate charged in the prior 12 months, fines up to 4 months of rent, and/or allowing tenants to terminate leases early

Creates a dedicated helpline and online portal for tenants to report rent restriction violations and receive assistance

Appropriates $3 million from the General Fund to establish a nonlapsing Rent Control Enforcement Fund, supplemented by collected penalties

Takes effect on the first day of the fifth month following enactment, with regulations to be adopted by the Commissioner of Community Affairs within that timeframe