New Jersey Assembly Bill A2119

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

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 proposed bill not only facilitates reimbursement for these delays but also empowers local governments by allowing them to use their own funds to expedite the continuation or completion of stalled projects. This is a pivotal measure as it ensures that localities can maintain infrastructure development without entirely relying on state funds. Furthermore, the bill safeguards against the withholding of local aid by the DOT, should local entities choose to allocate their own financial resources for project resumption.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2119 in New Jersey aims to address compensatory measures for local government entities affected by construction delays on transportation projects funded by the Transportation Trust Fund. The bill mandates that the Department of Transportation (DOT) reimburse local entities for damages caused by delays attributed to Executive Order No. 210 of 2016. This executive order had halted several transportation projects, thus creating a financial burden on local governments engaged in contracts for these constructions. The legislation seeks to alleviate this burden through direct compensation.

Contention

However, discussions surrounding Bill A2119 might touch on broader themes of state versus local governance, particularly in how state directives, like executive orders, can impact local project initiatives. There may be concerns regarding the implications of local government autonomy in making use of their own funds amidst state mandates. While supporters argue this approach encourages local self-sufficiency, detractors may voice apprehension about equitable access to state funds across different jurisdictions.