This bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) ensure that all newly installed electric vehicle charging stations are accessible for independent use by drivers with disabilities within 18 months of the bill's effective date. It specifies that charging stations must be located on accessible routes and include features such as a vehicle charging space that is at least 11 feet wide and 20 feet long, along with accessible communication features and operable parts. The bill also requires compliance with the technical requirements for accessible routes established under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA).
Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the design and operation of chargers, including the need for clear floor or ground spaces that meet ADA standards, connectors that can be operated with one hand, and the provision of customer service for reporting issues. It emphasizes that all chargers operated or maintained in the state must adhere to the technical requirements of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The DOT is tasked with adopting necessary rules and regulations to implement these provisions effectively.