New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5465

Introduced
5/18/23  

Caption

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

Impact

The bill mandates the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT) to develop eligibility criteria, an application process, and potentially negotiate contract terms with selected organizations. With this act, eligible organizations can secure discounted rates for their clients, employees, or students, ensuring that low-income groups or individuals pursuing job training programs have affordable access to public transport. The 'GO NJ Transit Card Program' will similarly offer individuals the ability to preload funds onto a transit card that provides further fare discounts, promoting increased usage of NJT services and enhancing overall access to public transportation.

Summary

Bill A5465 aims to enhance access to public transportation in New Jersey by introducing the 'NJpass Program' and the 'GO NJ Transit Card Program.' The 'NJpass Program' seeks to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations, which can include training providers, educational institutions, and social service agencies. It establishes a framework for these organizations to apply for participation, negotiate contracts, and provide discounted group rates for different classes of individuals affiliated with these organizations. This program intends to support workforce development by facilitating easier transportation options for individuals involved in training and education.

Contention

While the bill aims at expanding transportation options for vulnerable populations and supporting workforce development, there may be concerns regarding the implementation process, eligibility criteria, and negotiation complexities. Some stakeholders may argue that such a program could overload the NJ Transit Corporation with administration and financial obligations while requiring careful oversight to ensure that discounts effectively result in increased ridership. Furthermore, the effectiveness of these programs will be evaluated through annual reporting to the Governor and the Legislature, which may prompt discussions around transparency and accountability regarding public funds.

Companion Bills

NJ S3875

Same As Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1690

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

NJ S355

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

NJ S3875

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

NJ A4766

Establishes NJ Affordable Connectivity Program to provide discounted broadband services to certain households; appropriates $10 million.

NJ A5870

Establishes requirements for on-demand micro transit programs operating in NJ.

NJ A1437

Establishes COVID-19 Transitional Assistance Local Grant Program in DHS.

NJ A1484

Establishes "New Jersey Transit Bus Riders' Bill of Rights."

NJ A898

Establishes program to subsidize purchase price of medical cannabis for registered qualifying patients enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare programs.

NJ S3

Revises income eligibility criteria for, and provides for promotion of, PAAD and Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program; establishes "Senior Save Navigator Grant Program" to assist applicants with NJ Save applications.

NJ A3

Revises income eligibility criteria for, and provides for promotion of, PAAD and Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program; establishes "Senior Save Navigator Grant Program" to assist applicants with NJ Save applications.

Similar Bills

NJ S3875

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

NJ S355

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

NJ A1690

Establishes "NJpass Program" to provide discounted fares to eligible organizations; establishes "GO NJ Transit Card Program" to develop transit cards that can be used to purchase any NJT service.

CA AB2316

Public Utilities Commission: customer renewable energy subscription programs and the community renewable energy program.

MI HB4491

Individual income tax: credit; e-bike transportation incentive program act; create. Creates new act.

CA SB1221

Gas corporations: ceasing service: priority neighborhood decarbonization zones.

CA SB1314

Electricity: fixed charges.

CA AB781

Charges: health savings accounts: electricity.