Requires installation of certain rescue supplies on certain bridges.
Impact
The impact of A2927 is expected to be significant in terms of public safety and emergency preparedness. By equipping bridges with readily available rescue equipment, first responders will have the necessary tools to potentially save lives in drowning situations. Moreover, this bill supplements existing titles of New Jersey's Revised Statutes, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to public safety and ensuring that preventive measures are in place to mitigate risks associated with waterways accessible from these bridges.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2927 mandates the installation of rescue supplies, including a rescue tube and life jacket, on various bridges in New Jersey that are at least 100 feet long and cross over waterways. This legislation is directed at the New Jersey Department of Transportation and various authorities, including the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, requiring them to install these rescue cabinets within six months of the bill's effective date. The primary goal of this bill is to enhance safety measures on bridges that pose a risk for drowning incidents, thereby improving emergency response capabilities in case of such emergencies.
Contention
While the bill has broad support as a proactive safety measure, there may be logistical concerns regarding implementation, including the costs and resources involved in equipping all designated bridges. Additionally, there might be discussions around the maintenance and regular checks required for the installed equipment to ensure they are in proper working condition. Some stakeholders might argue about the allocation of funding for this initiative and whether it diverts resources from other critical infrastructure projects. However, no significant opposition has been noted in the current legislative discussions.
Requires owner or operator of certain trains to have discharge response, cleanup, and contingency plans to transport certain hazardous materials by rail; requires DEP to request bridge inspection reports from US DOT.
Requires owner or operator of certain trains to have discharge response, cleanup, and contingency plans to transport certain hazardous materials by rail; requires DEP to request bridge inspection reports from US DOT.