BLSJ EVP Tells Assembly Committee Permiting Reform Needed

BLSJ Executive Vice President Rick Van Osten testified before the New Jersey Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee on October 5, emphasizing the urgent need for meaningful permitting reform to expand housing production and improve affordability across the state. NJBA CEO Jeff Kolakowksi also provided comments on ways to improve housing production.

He informed the committee that regulatory requirements add about 26.4% to the cost of a new home. In 2025, the average new home price in the seven counties in South Jersey reached $834,388, with $220,278 attributable solely to regulatory costs.

South Jersey's 2025 median new home price was $558,085, with $147,334 tied to regulations, permits, and approvals.

The Assembly committee invited various organizations to discuss opportunities to boost economic development in New Jersey.