New Jersey Assembly Bill A5651

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/8/25
• Refer: 5/8/25

Caption

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

Impact

The legislation responds to specific instances, such as the disruption caused by the ongoing closure and repair of Interstate 80, where businesses have reported a significant decline in revenue due to restricted access and heightened traffic congestion. By allowing for fee waivers during the active period of these projects, the bill aims to support the financial viability of small businesses and licensed professionals who may suffer income losses as a result of construction activity in their vicinity. The bill also directs the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs and the Director of the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services to create formal processes for applicants seeking these fee waivers.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5651 aims to provide financial relief to businesses and individuals who hold professional licenses and are adversely affected by public highway projects in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill proposes waiving the license renewal fees for professionals practicing in areas known as 'impacted construction zones.' These zones are defined as the areas surrounding public highway projects where normal access to business establishments is impeded. The intent is to alleviate some of the economic strain imposed by such projects, particularly as they often lead to decreased customer traffic and increased travel times for local businesses, especially small ones.

Contention

Notably, while the bill seems to address immediate concerns of affected professionals and small businesses, there may be questions regarding the criteria for qualifying for the fee waivers. Concerns could arise over the bureaucratic processes involved in applying for the waivers, as well as the requirement for the directors to verify significant income reductions caused by the construction activities. Stakeholders will likely debate the adequacy and clarity of the bill's provisions and whether it sufficiently addresses the broader impacts of highway construction on local economies.