New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5554

Introduced
4/10/25  

Caption

"Road to Relief Act"; establishes EDA grant program to support increased transportation expenses incurred by certain commuters, employees, and businesses impacted by certain public highway projects, including ongoing Interstate 80 project; appropriates $1 million.

Impact

The grant program is designed to alleviate the financial burden on commuters and businesses affected by transportation disruptions caused by construction projects. By defining a 'relief period'—the time span from the start to the conclusion of a highway project—the bill ensures that reimbursements are closely tied to the actual disruptions faced by commuters and businesses. The EDA is tasked with the administration and approval of grant applications, which are evaluated on a rolling basis, enhancing the responsiveness of the program to the ongoing needs of affected parties.

Summary

Bill A5554, known as the 'Road to Relief Act', proposes the establishment of a grant program by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) to provide financial assistance to certain individuals and businesses. This program aims to reimburse commuters, full-time employees, and retail business establishments for transportation expenses that increase as a direct result of public highway projects, such as ongoing construction or improvements within designated construction zones. The bill appropriates $1 million to fund these initiatives.

Contention

While Bill A5554 is aimed at supporting individuals and businesses during construction-induced disruption, it could open debates on fiscal responsibility concerning the allocation of state funds. Supporters argue that it is essential for maintaining the economic viability of local businesses and reducing the burden on workers commuting through impacted zones. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the efficacy and sustainability of funding such programs, especially in light of increasing transportation demands and infrastructure needs.

Companion Bills

NJ S4369

Same As "Road to Relief Act"; establishes EDA grant program to support increased transportation expenses incurred by certain commuters, employees, and businesses impacted by certain public highway projects, including ongoing Interstate 80 project; appropriates $1 million.

Previously Filed As

NJ S4369

"Road to Relief Act"; establishes EDA grant program to support increased transportation expenses incurred by certain commuters, employees, and businesses impacted by certain public highway projects, including ongoing Interstate 80 project; appropriates $1 million.

NJ A5556

"Road to Tax Relief Act"; provides credit for sales tax remittances for businesses impacted by public highway projects, including Interstate 80 project; provides tax credits for certain businesses and persons impacted by same projects; makes appropriation.

NJ S4370

"Road to Tax Relief Act"; provides credit for sales tax remittances for businesses impacted by public highway projects, including Interstate 80 project; provides tax credits for certain businesses and persons impacted by same projects; makes appropriation.

NJ A4865

Establishes temporary sales tax exemption for small businesses impacted by ongoing public highway projects.

NJ A5651

Provides license renewal fee relief for businesses and individuals impacted by public highway projects.

NJ S4462

Provides license renewal fee relief for businesses and individuals impacted by public highway projects.

NJ A3117

Establishes Capital Project Development Loan Program to support certain large-scale redevelopment projects; appropriates $300 million.

NJ A4971

Requires EDA to provide grants to certain small businesses affected by State infrastructure and construction projects.

NJ A4868

Establishes Small Business Resiliency Project Loan Program in EDA for certain small businesses implementing certain resiliency projects.

NJ S234

Establishes Capital Project Development Loan Program to support certain large-scale redevelopment projects; appropriates $300 million.

Similar Bills

NJ S4369

"Road to Relief Act"; establishes EDA grant program to support increased transportation expenses incurred by certain commuters, employees, and businesses impacted by certain public highway projects, including ongoing Interstate 80 project; appropriates $1 million.

CA SB264

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CA SB873

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CA SB445

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CA AB2996

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CA AB440

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CA SB127

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CA SB760

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