Rep. Maureen Rowan

Maddy summaryThis bill allows New Jersey municipalities to qualify for preferential treatment when applying for state-funded grants by adopting specific strategies to encourage denser residential development. Municipalities must update their master plans and zoning regulations to include housing strategies like permitting accessory dwelling units, reducing parking requirements, or allowing multi-unit buildings in areas previously restricted to single-family homes. After implementing these changes and submitting the updated plans to the state, eligible municipalities receive priority in competitive grant distributions. The preference applies to most state grants but excludes programs focused on fair housing obligations or shared services.

Maddy summaryAJR 119 designates November 7 of each year as "Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day" in New Jersey. This symbolic resolution directly affects residents of New Jersey living with Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome (SDS), a rare genetic disorder impacting bone marrow, pancreas, and skeletal development. The bill requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to observe the day with awareness activities. It aims to increase public understanding of SDS, support affected individuals, and promote further research into the condition. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal recognition of the disorder.