New Jersey Senate Bill S406

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

"Swift Access For Emergency Response Actions Preservation Program (SAFER APP)"; authorizes Attorney General to order turn-by-turn navigation systems to reroute vehicular traffic under certain conditions.

Impact

The passage of S406 aims to enhance the capacity of municipalities to manage traffic more effectively during emergencies. By allowing municipalities to assess the impact of navigation systems on traffic safety, the bill seeks to mitigate excessive congestion and delays in emergency vehicle dispatch. Furthermore, if an emergency condition is confirmed, the Attorney General is empowered to order navigation systems to reroute traffic to alleviate the situation, which could substantially alter how traffic is managed during crises. This approach is designed to safeguard public safety while maintaining effective communication with municipalities regarding traffic issues.

Summary

Senate Bill 406, known as the 'Swift Access For Emergency Response Actions Preservation Program (SAFER APP),' introduces a framework for municipalities to address traffic conditions that may pose safety hazards due to the use of turn-by-turn navigation systems. The bill allows a municipality's governing body to adopt a resolution requesting the Attorney General to investigate if certain traffic conditions, influenced by navigation systems, qualify as an 'emergency condition.' If the resolution is approved by the Commissioner of Transportation, the Attorney General is mandated to conduct an investigation and determine whether an emergency exists based on traffic reports and public safety criteria.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding S406 is the enforcement mechanism. The bill stipulates significant fines for navigation service providers that do not comply with rerouting orders issued by the Attorney General. Opponents may argue that this could lead to conflicts between technology providers and municipalities, particularly concerning the practicality and implementation of such rerouting orders. Proponents, however, may contend that this bill is a necessary step to ensure swift responses to emergency conditions, emphasizing its role in addressing the current challenges posed by navigation systems contributing to traffic complications.