N.J. governor signs landmark housing bill for people with MI: state is one of the most expensive housing regions the nation.(New Jersey Mental illness)

New Jersey mental health advocates are applauding landmark legislation signed by Acting Gov. Richard J. Codey to establish a $200 million Special Needs Housing Trust Fund to create 10,000 new affordable housing opportunities for persons with mental illness and developmental disabilities across the state. New Jersey is one of the most expensive housing states in the nation, say advocates.

The Special Needs Housing Trust Fund Act will be used to develop permanent supportive housing, community residences, and other supportive housing arrangements for people with special needs, including mental illness and physical or developmental disabilities over 10 years. This helps ensure individuals with special needs have access to meaningful housing alternatives to avoid institutionalization and homelessness, say officials.

There are 8,000 …