New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2342

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

Impact

The impact of A2342 on state laws is significant as it introduces a requirement for NJT to reassess and potentially alter public transportation routes and schedules to better accommodate individuals with autism. This change could lead to increased accessibility for this community, enhancing their mobility and fostering independence. The requirement for NJT to actively engage with affected individuals might also set a precedent for similar legislative actions in other areas, urging public services to consider the inputs of marginalized groups more seriously.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2342 mandates the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT) to expand or modify its transportation services, including motorbus regular routes, paratransit service, and rail passenger service, to meet the mobility needs of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The bill requires these adjustments to be made within one year of its effective date, ensuring timely action to improve accessibility. A notable aspect of the bill is its emphasis on soliciting feedback from individuals on the autism spectrum and their advocates, thereby fostering a community-centered approach to public transportation planning.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as beneficial by advocates for individuals with autism, points of contention may arise concerning the feasibility of rapid implementation within the stipulated timeframe. Critics may argue about the potential burden on NJT concerning operational adjustments and resource allocation, as well as questions regarding the effectiveness of merely soliciting input rather than mandating comprehensive service changes. These discussions could reflect broader concerns about resource availability and the prioritization of funding in public transport infrastructure improvements.

Companion Bills

NJ S324

Same As Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

NJ A1901

Carry Over Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

NJ S148

Carry Over Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1901

Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

NJ S148

Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

NJ S324

Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

NJ A1920

Requires NJT to provide notice concerning routine maintenance and significant reductions in service.

NJ A2307

Requires NJT to provide notice concerning routine maintenance and significant reductions in service.

NJ A3884

Increases transparency and accountability for NJT and independence of NJT board members; establishes Office of Customer Advocate; requires greater detail for capital program.

NJ A1490

Requires certain providers of transportation services to develop and publish route schedules.

NJ S1584

Increases transparency and accountability for NJT and independence of NJT board members; establishes Office of Customer Advocate; requires greater detail for capital program.

NJ S3038

Requires NJT to offer discount fares to certain individuals.

NJ A3554

Requires NJT to offer discount fares to certain individuals.

Similar Bills

HI SB318

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

HI SB714

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

HI SB2647

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

HI HB1814

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

HI HB900

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

HI SB714

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

HI HB900

Relating To Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

FL H0829

Autism Spectrum Disorder Training for Law Enforcement Officers