New Jersey Assembly Bill A3060

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 6/6/24
• Engrossed: 6/28/24
• Refer: 9/19/24

Caption

Permits designation of special event zones for traffic regulation purposes during certain large events.

Impact

A3060 aims to amend existing traffic regulations by allowing local authorities to impose specific changes in traffic management during special events. This includes the ability to reduce speed limits and impose stricter penalties for traffic violations within these zones. Violators could face fines upwards of $1,000 or imprisonment for serious offenses like exhibition driving or racing, highlighting a significant shift towards stricter traffic regulation designed to enhance public safety during events of significant attendance.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3060 seeks to empower local governments and the New Jersey Department of Transportation to designate 'special event zones' for the purpose of regulating traffic during large automotive events. These zones can be established in areas where motor vehicle events are expected to draw a minimum of 25 attendees. This bill allows the designated protections to become effective without the prior approval of the Commissioner of Transportation, streamlining the process and enhancing local autocracy regarding traffic management during events.

Contention

Opposition may arise concerning the potential overreach of local municipalities and counties in traffic regulation. Critics might argue that removing the requirement for state approval could lead to inconsistencies in traffic management policies across different regions. Additionally, the broad definition of 'exhibition driving' raises questions about how enforcement will be conducted and whether it could unfairly target certain behaviors that might not always be inherently dangerous.