This bill establishes the New Jersey Transit (NJT) Office of Customer Advocate and the Rider Advocacy Commission, which will operate independently within the Department of Transportation. The commission will consist of three members appointed by the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the General Assembly, with each member serving a five-year term. The commission is empowered to appoint a Rider Advocate, who will lead the office and report directly to the commission. The Rider Advocate will have the authority to protect the interests of NJT customers and may temporarily hire expert assistants when exceptional circumstances arise, such as fare increases or significant service changes.

The Office of Customer Advocate will be responsible for providing analysis and feedback to the NJT board, the Governor, and the Legislature regarding the impact of NJT actions on customers. It will conduct investigations, initiate studies, and hold monthly meetings with customers to relay their concerns. The office will also represent customer interests in matters such as fare increases and service changes. Funding for the commission and office will be provided by the State Treasurer, separate from NJT funds. Additionally, the bill repeals a previous requirement for NJT to employ a customer advocate, streamlining the advocacy process under the new commission and office structure.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:25-5.27