New Jersey Assembly Bill A560

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 10/21/24
• Engrossed: 12/19/24

Caption

Requires transportation network company drivers to complete anti-human trafficking training course.

Impact

This bill will significantly impact state laws by integrating mandatory training into the onboarding and ongoing certification processes for TNC drivers. Under the provisions of A560, each TNC must implement the course within 90 days of the bill's effective date. Failure to comply with these requirements will lead to restrictions on drivers' ability to operate under the TNC's digital platform until proper certification is provided. By mandating such training, the New Jersey Legislature aims to reduce the prevalence of human trafficking through informed citizens within the ride-sharing community.

Summary

Assembly Bill A560, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, mandates that transportation network company (TNC) drivers and applicants complete an anti-human trafficking training approved by the Attorney General. This legislation aims to enhance awareness and reporting protocols around human trafficking, ensuring that TNC drivers are equipped with the knowledge to recognize and act in situations where they might encounter trafficking. The training must include comprehensive content covering the definition of human trafficking, guidance on reporting suspicious activities, and the role drivers play in combating this issue.

Contention

While the push for increased protection against human trafficking is largely supported, there may be concerns related to the economic and operational impacts on TNCs. Opponents could argue that the additional training requirement may lead to increased operational costs for TNCs, potentially resulting in higher fares or reduced driver availability as compliance is enforced. Moreover, there may be debates surrounding the effectiveness of such training in actual trafficking prevention versus the need to allocate resources toward law enforcement training and community awareness initiatives.