Requires DOT to ensure electric vehicle charging stations are accessible to disabled drivers.
Impact
The act stipulates that electric vehicle charging stations must be installed along accessible routes that allow independent use by drivers with disabilities. This includes specifications for charging spaces, such as a minimum width of 11 feet and a length of 20 feet. Furthermore, it emphasizes compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that all elements of these charging stations, including operable parts and pathways, meet accessibility standards, thus modernizing the infrastructure and potentially increasing electric vehicle usage among disabled individuals.
Summary
Senate Bill S3791 is an act aimed at enhancing the accessibility of electric vehicle charging stations for individuals with disabilities. The bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) ensure that newly installed electric vehicle charging stations will be accessible to all drivers, particularly those with mobility challenges. This accessibility requirement is part of a broader objective to promote equal access to electric vehicle infrastructure, thereby supporting a wider adoption of electric vehicles across the state.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its intention to improve accessibility, discussions may arise regarding the implementation timeline of 18 months and the potential costs associated with retrofitting existing facilities to comply with these new standards. Furthermore, there may be concerns from stakeholders about how these changes could affect the availability and convenience of charging stations in highly populated areas or their impact on the existing infrastructure of chargers. Addressing these concerns will be critical to ensuring the successful implementation of S3791.
Prohibits municipal utilities authority from charging fire district and fire department water service charges for fire protection systems in certain circumstances.