Small claims jurisdiction of actions on security deposits less than $5,000

6.   Notwithstanding any law or rule to the contrary, the Division of Small Claims of the Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part shall have jurisdiction of actions between an owner or lessee and tenant for the return of all or a part of a security deposit in which the amount in dispute, including any applicable penalties, does not exceed the sum of $5,000, exclusive of costs.    L.2003,c.188,s.6.