Allows municipalities to approve provision of traffic control services by law enforcement or certain other construction and work zone personnel for certain road construction projects.
Impact
The passage of A470 is expected to have a significant impact on local road construction processes by formalizing the use of qualified personnel for traffic management. This can lead to improved safety and efficiency during construction activities, as trained individuals would be tasked with directing traffic, thereby reducing the risk of accidents in construction zones. The bill mandates the Commissioner of Transportation to establish minimum training requirements, which could enhance the skill set of those managing traffic in such situations.
Summary
Assembly Bill A470, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, aims to enhance the provision of traffic control services during road construction projects managed by municipalities. The bill allows municipalities, utilities, or contractors engaged in road construction on municipal roads to employ law enforcement or trained personnel to manage traffic. This is contingent upon the approval of the governing body of the municipality overseeing the project, ensuring local governance maintains authority over implementation.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding A470 may arise from the varying perspectives on municipal control versus state oversight. Critics could argue that increased reliance on law enforcement or specific personnel for traffic control during construction could divert resources or impose additional operational burdens on municipalities. However, supporters may emphasize the need for such measures to ensure safety and compliance during road construction projects, highlighting the potential benefits of improved training standards and accountability.
Regulatory framework
In terms of regulatory implications, A470 allows the Commissioner of Transportation to bypass certain procedural protocols under the Administrative Procedure Act to implement regulations that support the bill's provisions. These regulations will be initially temporary, lasting up to 360 days, after which they would have to align with standard regulatory procedures. This aspect may be scrutinized for its potential to expedite regulations without sufficient public input.
Carry Over
Allows municipalities to approve provision of traffic control services by law enforcement or certain other construction and work zone personnel for certain road construction projects.
Allows municipalities to approve provision of traffic control services by law enforcement or certain other construction and work zone personnel for certain road construction projects.
An Act Requiring Doubled Fines For Certain Violations In Municipal Construction Zones And Prohibiting Municipalities From Requiring Police Supervision Of Construction Zones.
Allows municipalities to approve provision of traffic control services by law enforcement or certain other construction and work zone personnel for certain road construction projects.
An Act Concerning The Transfer Of Functions From The Departments Of Public Works, Information Technology And Public Safety And The Judicial Selection Commission To The Department Of Administrative Services And Establishing The Department Of Construction Services.