New Jersey Assembly Bill A3498

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/8/22

Caption

Requires interior light of motor vehicle be turned on when stopped by law enforcement under certain circumstances.

Impact

The bill modifies Section 1 of P.L.1997, c.374, which previously allowed law enforcement officers to request the activation of interior lights during certain conditions. Under A3498, the law mandates that drivers must turn on the interior light either during the legally required lighting periods or upon an officer's request. This change is expected to promote compliance and increase safety during traffic stops, as well as potentially reduce misunderstandings or accidents stemming from inadequate visibility into vehicles.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3498 introduces a requirement for drivers to activate the interior lights of their motor vehicles during specific circumstances when stopped by law enforcement officers. This requirement aims to enhance safety by ensuring that the driver’s compartment is illuminated, making it easier for law enforcement to see inside the vehicle during stops, especially in low-light conditions like nighttime or during inclement weather. The bill stipulates that it is mandatory for drivers to activate the interior light without a request from the officer, which differs from previous legislation where activation was only required upon an officer's request.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding this bill is the reduction of the fine for non-compliance from $50 to $35. Supporters argue that this fine adjustment could encourage compliance while still serving as a deterrent against neglecting the new requirement. Critics may see it as too lenient in terms of enforcing traffic safety regulations. Additionally, there may be concerns about how effectively the law can be communicated to the public, as the bill mandates that the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission must enhance public awareness efforts regarding this new requirement.

Effectiveness

The bill's effective date is set for the first day of the fourth month following its enactment, intended to provide adequate time for public education on the law. By promoting awareness, the state hopes to ensure that drivers understand their responsibilities when approached by law enforcement, which could enhance the safety of all parties involved during such encounters.