This bill amends the existing law governing the New Jersey Transportation Research Bureau within the Department of Transportation, allowing the bureau to award research contracts not only to New Jersey public research institutions of higher education but also to private research institutions and other entities. The bill stipulates that the bureau must determine if awarding a contract to a public or private institution or another entity serves the public interest. It also emphasizes that all contracts must adhere to relevant state and federal public bidding regulations.

Furthermore, the bill removes the previous provision that allowed the bureau's manager to authorize competitive bidding for research contracts based on a written determination of potential benefits to the department. Instead, the manager is now tasked with establishing and maintaining relationships with both public and private research institutions and other entities. The definition of "entities" is also expanded to include a broader range of organizations, excluding municipal planning organizations. Additionally, contracts must ensure that research considers the transportation needs of residents with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:1B-21.36