The bill amends existing legislation to include Burlington County as a member of the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA), which currently comprises Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem counties. This inclusion aims to improve the coordination of the region's transportation system in response to increasing vehicular traffic and transportation demands due to residential development and casino gaming in Atlantic City. The SJTA will take over the functions of the New Jersey Expressway Authority and the Atlantic County Transportation Authority, focusing on the operation and potential expansion of transportation infrastructure, including highways and aviation facilities.

Additionally, the bill modifies the composition of the SJTA's governing body by increasing the number of appointed members from seven to eight, ensuring representation from both within and outside a 30-mile radius of the Atlantic City International Airport. It also updates the title of the ex officio nonvoting member from the Commissioner of Commerce, Energy and Economic Development to the Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. The bill outlines operational provisions, including quorum requirements, compensation for board members, and the process for member removal by the Governor, while also establishing that members must take an oath of office and file annual financial disclosures. The authority can be dissolved by legislative action, with all assets reverting to the State upon dissolution, and the act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:25A-2, 27:25A-3, 27:25A-5