New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2248

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires DOT, NJT, and DHS to study and implement transportation mobility and accessibility improvements for persons with autism and developmental disabilities.

Impact

The bill represents a significant push towards enhancing the quality of transportation services for individuals with disabilities, which has implications for accessibility standards across the state. By encouraging updated design policies, it seeks to rectify current inadequacies in public transportation that disproportionately affect those with autism and similar conditions. The passage of A2248 could lead to more thoughtful urban planning and public works that prioritize the needs of people with disabilities, potentially influencing future legislative frameworks surrounding transportation services in New Jersey.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2248 aims to improve transportation mobility and accessibility for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities in New Jersey. The bill mandates a comprehensive review of existing transportation infrastructure by the Department of Transportation (DOT), in collaboration with the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT) and the Department of Human Services (DHS). This review will focus on identifying and implementing design practices that facilitate independent travel for these individuals, thereby promoting greater inclusion in public transit systems.

Contention

While the bill anticipates improvements in mobility and accessibility for a marginalized group, potential contention may arise around the financial implications of implementing these required changes. Stakeholders may discuss the availability of funding for the proposed infrastructure changes and the prioritization of resources within DOT, NJT, and DHS. Moreover, local governments facing budget constraints might express concern over mandated design practices impacting their operations and expenditures in road and transport projects.

Companion Bills

NJ S933

Same As Requires DOT, NJT, and DHS to study and implement transportation mobility and accessibility improvements for persons with autism and developmental disabilities.

NJ A2242

Carry Over Requires DOT, NJT, and DHS to study and implement transportation mobility and accessibility improvements for persons with autism and developmental disabilities.

NJ S1966

Carry Over Requires DOT, NJT, and DHS to study and implement transportation mobility and accessibility improvements for persons with autism and developmental disabilities.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1137

Requires DOT, NJT, and DHS to study and implement transportation mobility and accessibility improvements for persons with autism and developmental disabilities.

NJ A3405

Requires DOT to implement complete streets policy that considers persons with certain disabilities.

NJ A3037

Requires NJT to expand or modify routes and hours of certain transportation services and to solicit input from individuals diagnosed with autism.

NJ A2429

Requires NJT to implement education program for services provided to persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and other individuals with mobility needs.

NJ A2019

"Penny's Law"; requires DEP to develop beach accessibility guidelines for persons with disabilities.

NJ A986

Revises law on extended employment programs for persons with disabilities.

NJ A2046

Provides gross income tax deduction to eligible educators and paraprofessionals for expense of classroom supplies.

NJ AJR115

Condemns hate in all forms and especially all hate and bias crimes.

NJ A2354

Eliminates smoking ban exemption for casinos and simulcasting facilities.

NJ AJR89

Establishes "Autism and Developmental Disabilities Study Commission."

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