Prohibits snowplow or de-icing service contract from indemnifying promisee against liability for loss or damage in certain instances.
Impact
By making indemnity clauses in snowplow and de-icing contracts void and unenforceable, S3441 brings New Jersey in line with other states that have enacted similar anti-indemnity statutes. The bill limits the ability of businesses and individuals who contract for snow removal to shift their liability onto the service providers, thereby enhancing protection for the service providers and ensuring that they are not unfairly burdened by potential legal repercussions stemming from another party's negligence or misconduct.
Summary
Senate Bill S3441 aims to establish regulations surrounding snowplow and de-icing service contracts. Specifically, it prohibits these contracts from including indemnity clauses that would relieve the promisee from liability resulting from their own negligence, intentional acts, or omissions. This type of regulation is designed to protect those providing snow removal services from being unfairly held accountable for liability when the fault lies with the promisee or party requesting the service.
Contention
The bill aligns with existing regulations limiting indemnity provisions in various types of service contracts in New Jersey, particularly in construction and transportation. However, it may face opposition from some businesses and local governments that may see the restrictions as unnecessary or limiting for their operational needs. Understanding the balance between protecting service providers and ensuring that entities utilizing these services can effectively manage risk will be a notable point of discussion in the legislative process.
Authorizes designated state and local election officials with supervisory responsibility over polling locations the use of amber flashing safety lights on their vehicles.