NJ S3705

New Jersey's Commissioner of Community Affairs must develop and implement a plan to end veteran homelessness within three years, following criteria established by the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness.

The strategy requires maintaining a statewide by-name list of homeless or at-risk veterans prioritized by vulnerability, with data sharing among shelters, state departments, and federal VA Medical Centers.

Veterans would receive priority access to benefits through the Homeless Prevention Program, emergency assistance under Work First New Jersey, and other housing placement processes.

The plan commits to "Housing First" principles, which treat housing as a tool rather than a reward for recovery, providing permanent housing quickly without requiring participation in services as a condition.

The Commissioner must submit progress reports to the Governor and Legislature within six months after the initial three-year period, and update the plan every three years thereafter.