NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A1758

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1758

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, A1758 would fundamentally change how NJ Transit operates and reports its activities. It mandates that the NJ Transit board of directors must hold public hearings at least bi-annually to discuss its annual capital program and strategic plans, thereby increasing accountability to both the legislature and the public. Furthermore, it obliges NJ Transit to provide detailed reports about individual capital projects, rather than broad categories previously used, enhancing financial transparency. Such changes could lead to improved service delivery as stakeholder concerns and inquiries are directly relayed to the board through the Customer Advocate.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1758 aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT) by establishing an independent Office of Customer Advocate and instituting stricter reporting requirements for NJ Transit’s capital program. This bill proposes significant reforms to ensure that decisions made by NJ Transit truly reflect the needs and concerns of its customers. By reallocating various responsibilities and augmenting communication channels, the bill seeks to provide a robust platform for passenger feedback and input on crucial decisions regarding transportation services, fares, and operations.

Contention

The introduction of the Office of Customer Advocate represents a potential point of contention within discussions regarding this bill. By establishing this role independent of NJ Transit’s direct oversight, some stakeholders may express concerns about the added layer of bureaucracy and its implications on operational efficacy. Supporters advocate that a dedicated advocate for passengers will ultimately lead to better service and responsiveness. Opposition could arise from those who argue that sufficient mechanisms for public input and oversight already exist. The actions and reporting of the Customer Advocate may also become a subject of scrutiny regarding their effectiveness and the adequacy of their resources.

Companion Bills

NJ S555

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

Previously Filed As

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 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 S555

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

NJ A5242

Establishes NJT Office of Customer Advocate and Rider Advocacy Commission.

NJ S1190

Establishes NJT Office of Customer Advocate and Rider Advocacy Commission.

NJ A1424

Establishes NJT Office of Customer Advocate and Rider Advocacy Commission.

NJ S4500

Requires NJTA, NJT, and SJTA to provide notice of proposed fare, charge, and toll increases; requires BPU to provide notice of certain filings and decisions.

NJ A243

Changes reporting date and certain data requirements for NJT annual report; establishes penalty for failure to issue report in timely manner; and establishes quarterly reporting requirements.

NJ A414

Establishes Office of the Advocate for Private Commuter Bus Service Customers and bill of rights for customers of private carriers operating motorbus regular route services.

NJ A5762

Creates certain public meeting requirements for passenger advisory committees.

Similar Bills

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 S555

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

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.

MS HB921

Mississippi Transit Corporation; establish and create study committee.

MS HB723

Mississippi Transit Corporation; establish and create study committee.

MS HB141

Mississippi Transit Corporation; establish.

NJ A5762

Creates certain public meeting requirements for passenger advisory committees.

HI HB19

Relating To Tourism.