“ The doctrine emerged as a moral counterpunch to America’s suburban segregation. Mount Laurel Doctrine I declared that municipalities could not use zoning to shirk their “fair share” of affordable housing; Mount Laurel Doctrine II ordered them to proactively plan for it. The rulings invoked New Jersey’s constitution to affirm housing as a fundamental right, challenging towns to design inclusive futures. Yet, the machinery meant to realize this vision—the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH)—became mired in political battles, procedural delays, and legal loopholes—COAH was dismantled in 2024.”
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