52:15D-3 Findings, declarations relative to Superstorm Sandy aid money.

1. The Legislature finds and declares that:

In the autumn of 2012, Superstorm Sandy ravaged New Jersey's shoreline, as well as many other communities in the State. The storm destroyed or damaged more than 72,000 of the State's homes and businesses, has driven more than a quarter-million State residents to seek governmental assistance, and has resulted in more than $36 billion in damage and recovery needs. In addition, due to the time it has taken to distribute recovery aid following Superstorm Sandy, many of those affected by the storm now face the reality of foreclosure on their home mortgages. While New Jersey communities have taken certain important steps toward recovery, the work to rebuild is not yet complete.

Recognizing that there are numerous challenges associated with the efficient and expedient distribution of federal recovery resources following a disaster of the scale of Superstorm Sandy, the processes for individuals and communities to obtain governmental assistance has not been as fast as the Governor and the Legislature would like, and can be improved. Although the reasons for delays in obtaining assistance vary, the State has an obligation to those affected by the storm to make the process of obtaining benefits as user friendly and transparent as possible. For these reasons and others, it is necessary for the Governor and the Legislature to codify and expand upon standards and safeguards for the treatment of individuals and communities seeking financial assistance in recovering from Superstorm Sandy.

L.2015, c.102, s.1.