New Jersey Assembly Bill A3513

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/8/22

Caption

"Swift Access For Emergency Response Actions Preservation Program (SAFER APP)"; authorizes Attorney General to order turn-by-turn navigation systems to reroute vehicular traffic under certain conditions.

Impact

If passed, A3513 would empower local governments to address the traffic congestion and safety issues that arise specifically due to navigation systems. By engaging the Attorney General in investigating these situations, the municipalities will have a greater capacity to manage local traffic effectively. The goal is to streamline traffic rerouting in emergency conditions, thereby improving response times of emergency vehicles and reducing risks associated with excessive vehicular traffic.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3513, known as the "Swift Access For Emergency Response Actions Preservation Program (SAFER APP)," aims to enhance traffic management during emergencies through the regulation of turn-by-turn navigation systems. The bill authorizes municipalities to request the Attorney General to investigate traffic conditions that could potentially pose safety hazards caused by such navigation systems. This would ensure that timely and appropriate action is taken during situations that can obstruct emergency vehicles and create hazards for public safety.

Contention

There may be concerns regarding the balance of power between state and municipal authorities in regulating navigation systems. Some stakeholders might argue that the bill centralizes too much authority with the Attorney General, potentially undermining local government independence. Additionally, the bill imposes financial penalties of up to $5,000 per day on entities operating navigation systems that fail to comply with rerouting orders, which could be contentious in discussions about regulatory enforcement versus technological compliance.