New Jersey Senate Bill S1270

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22
• Refer: 2/3/22

Caption

Authorizes court to impose rescue operation costs of public entity under certain circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, S1270 would modify state laws related to the assessment of costs arising from public entity rescues. By permitting courts to impose rescue operation costs, the bill would effectively hold individuals accountable for the financial burdens their reckless behaviors may place on public services. This legislative move is intended to discourage dangerous behavior on the roads and ensure that those who contribute to emergency situations can be financially liable for the necessary state responses.

Summary

Senate Bill S1270 seeks to authorize courts to impose costs associated with rescue operations conducted by public entities under certain conditions. Specifically, if a person is found guilty of criminal mischief, reckless driving, careless driving, or operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner, the court may assess and require the person to pay for the expenses incurred by public services during recovery or rescue efforts. These services can include law enforcement and emergency medical responses to rescue situations stemming from reckless actions.

Contention

The potential contention surrounding S1270 lies in its implications for personal responsibility and public service funding. Advocates argue that such measures will deter reckless driving and protect public resources, ensuring that citizens do not bear the financial burden for someone else's misbehavior. However, critics might express concerns about the fairness of imposing such costs on individuals, particularly those who may be in distressing situations that led to the rescue necessity. The bill raises questions about the appropriateness of charging individuals for public emergency services and whether it might dissuade people from seeking help in critical situations.