New Jersey Assembly Bill A1565

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Exempts customer with account for electronic toll collection system, commonly known as E-ZPass, from certain fees if motor vehicle is stolen.

Impact

If passed, this bill will strengthen consumer protections for E-ZPass users by ensuring that they are not financially penalized for incidents of vehicle theft. This aligns with broader public policy goals of safeguarding citizens against financial loss stemming from criminal activity. It also clarifies the responsibilities and procedures for reporting stolen vehicles and associated toll collection. This bill may prompt revisions to administrative processes in toll collection systems to better accommodate timely customer notifications and reporting.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1565 aims to amend current laws governing the New Jersey electronic toll collection system, commonly known as E-ZPass. The bill protects users from incurring unauthorized toll charges in the event their motor vehicle is reported stolen and the user acts promptly in notifying the toll authority. Specifically, if a customer with an E-ZPass account reports the theft of their vehicle that contains an E-ZPass transponder, they will be exempt from liability for unauthorized charges exceeding $50 incurred before reporting the vehicle as stolen. Furthermore, there will be no charges for the lost or stolen transponder provided that the customer submits a police report of the theft.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding Bill A1565 could be the balance between consumer protections and the administrative burden it places on toll authorities. Some stakeholders might argue that the provisions that allow exemptions from toll charges could lead to potential abuse of the system, where customers might not accurately report thefts or fail to act in a timely manner. Conversely, advocates for the bill may stress that such protections are essential in promoting trust and fairness within the toll collection system, especially in light of growing concerns over vehicle theft.