New Jersey Senate Bill S1279

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22
• Refer: 2/3/22

Caption

Requires each municipality to establish a Reverse 9-1-1 system.

Impact

The implementation of S1279 will require all municipalities to comply with the new standard for safety communications, thereby centralizing the approach to public notifications in emergencies. Funding for the Reverse 9-1-1 systems will come from a $2 surcharge added to each fine associated with traffic violations, which will be deposited into the newly created Reverse 9-1-1 Systems Fund. This fund will exclusively provide grants to municipalities for the setup and maintenance of these systems, helping alleviate the financial burden on local governments.

Summary

Senate Bill S1279 mandates that all municipalities in New Jersey establish a Reverse 9-1-1 system within 18 months of the bill's effective date. This system allows municipalities and law enforcement agencies to send pre-recorded emergency messages to residents and businesses within a specified geographical area. The establishment of these systems is aimed at enhancing public safety by providing timely notifications about emergencies such as fires, floods, or criminal activities in progress.

Contention

Noteworthy discussions surrounding S1279 may arise regarding the funding mechanism, as some may question the appropriateness of generating funds for emergency systems through traffic penalties. Critics might argue that relying on such a payment structure could lead to a disproportionate impact on lower-income drivers who are more likely to encounter fines. Conversely, supporters contend that this funding approach is a viable solution to ensure widespread adoption of essential emergency communication systems without placing an additional tax burden on citizens.