This bill amends existing legislation to prohibit transportation network companies from implementing surge pricing during a declared state of emergency. Surge pricing is defined as charging riders a fare that exceeds the usual rate during periods of high demand, specifically when the fare increase is more than double the standard rate. The bill establishes that a state of emergency refers to a natural disaster or emergency declared by either the President of the United States or the Governor of New Jersey.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for transportation network companies that violate this prohibition, with fines set at a maximum of $10,000 for the first offense and $20,000 for subsequent offenses. The legislation aims to protect consumers from inflated fares during critical times when transportation services are essential, ensuring that riders are not subjected to excessive charges in emergencies. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:5H-2, 39:5H-7