New Jersey Assembly Bill A823

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Report Pass: 3/10/22

Caption

Requires NJTA and SJTA to check E-ZPass database before issuing E-ZPass violation.

Impact

If enacted, Bill A823 would have a significant effect on the operations of electronic tolling systems in New Jersey. Currently, vehicles can receive violation notices even if they have valid E-ZPass accounts, leading to confusion and disputes among drivers. By mandating a database check prior to issuing violations, the bill aims to reduce the number of incorrect charges and increase overall confidence in the toll collection system. This could potentially lead to a decrease in administrative disputes and enhance transparency between the authorities and the public about toll enforcement.

Summary

Bill A823 proposes an amendment to current electronic toll collection processes in New Jersey, stipulating that both the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA) and the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) are required to check the E-ZPass database before issuing any E-ZPass violations. The bill highlights the need for necessary verification to ensure that drivers are not unfairly penalized for supposed toll violations related to vehicles that should be covered under existing accounts. The motivation behind this legislation appears to be in the interest of fairness and administrative accuracy.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding Bill A823 is likely to be supportive, particularly among drivers who use E-ZPass regularly and have concerns about wrongful violations. Supporters of the bill may view it as a step in the right direction toward ensuring consumer protections within electronic transaction processes. Conversely, some may express concerns about the administrative burden this might place on the authorities enforcing these checks, claiming that it could slow down the toll collection process and lead to inefficiencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the operational implications for the NJTA and SJTA in implementing the required checks, as well as the potential increase in disputes from account holders who fail to update their vehicle information. Additionally, while the bill aims to streamline the violation process and reduce unfair penalties, there are concerns regarding whether the resources allocated for these checks are justified and whether it will indeed simplify or complicate toll violation resolution.