New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2043

Introduced
3/3/22  

Caption

Requires DOT to compensate local government entities for contractual delay damages resulting from shutdown of transportation projects funded by Transportation Trust Fund; authorizes local government entities to use certain funds for transportation projects.

Impact

The bill allows local governments to use their own funds to proceed with and complete transportation projects that were previously stalled because of the Executive Order. This provision empowers local governments to take the initiative in ensuring that critical transportation projects move forward without excessive bureaucratic hindrance. Moreover, it clarifies that the DOT or any related executive body cannot revoke or cancel local aid due to the actions taken by local entities to fund and finish these projects. Such support is vital for maintaining and improving local infrastructure.

Summary

Senate Bill S2043 seeks to address the financial repercussions faced by local government entities due to delays in transportation projects funded by the Transportation Trust Fund. Introduced by Senator Nilsa I. Cruz-Perez, the bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) compensate municipalities, counties, and other related entities for any contractual delay damages that arise from the implementation of Executive Order No. 210 from 2016. This Executive Order had significant implications for the funding and continuation of certain transportation projects.

Contention

While the bill presents a framework for assisting local governments, it could raise concerns regarding fiscal responsibility and the allocation of state resources. Some critics may argue that allowing local governments to independently fund projects could lead to discrepancies in project execution and funding for essential public services. Additionally, there might be apprehensions regarding the extent of the DOT's obligations to cover contractual delays, and how these provisions may impact future state budgets and financial prioritization of transportation funding across New Jersey.

Companion Bills

NJ A1573

Same As Requires DOT to compensate local government entities for contractual delay damages resulting from shutdown of transportation projects funded by Transportation Trust Fund; authorizes local government entities to use certain funds for transportation projects.

Previously Filed As

NJ S122

Requires DOT to compensate local government entities for contractual delay damages resulting from shutdown of transportation projects funded by Transportation Trust Fund; authorizes local government entities to use certain funds for transportation projects.

NJ A1573

Requires DOT to compensate local government entities for contractual delay damages resulting from shutdown of transportation projects funded by Transportation Trust Fund; authorizes local government entities to use certain funds for transportation projects.

NJ A2119

Requires DOT to compensate local government entities for contractual delay damages resulting from shutdown of transportation projects funded by Transportation Trust Fund; authorizes local government entities to use certain funds for transportation projects.

NJ HB13

Relating to categories of and funding allocation for transportation projects by the Texas Department of Transportation and local transportation entities.

NJ AB208

Restricts the use of certain products by governmental entities and government-funded entities. (BDR 19-737)

NJ S1338

Incorporates boardwalks into transportation local aid program and provides for Local Aid Infrastructure Fund grants to boardwalk projects.

NJ A3143

Incorporates boardwalks into transportation local aid program and provides for Local Aid Infrastructure Fund grants to boardwalk projects.

NJ S1224

Incorporates boardwalks into transportation local aid program and provides for Local Aid Infrastructure Fund grants to boardwalk projects.

NJ SB640

Transportation financing: jointly funded projects.

NJ SB1384

Relating to the provision by a regional mobility authority of financial assistance for transportation projects of governmental entities located in the area of the authority; providing authority to issue bonds.

Similar Bills

CA AB2237

Transportation planning: regional transportation improvement plan: sustainable communities strategies: alternative planning strategy: state transportation funding.

CA SB1369

Energy: green electrolytic hydrogen.

CA SB1196

State Transit Assistance Program: eligibility: Anaheim Transportation Network.

HI HB699

Relating To Transportation Network Companies.

HI SB770

Relating To Transportation Network Companies.

CA AB1525

Transportation projects: priority populations.

UT SB0310

Transportation Utility Fee Amendments

TX SB2096

Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.