This bill mandates the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT) to conduct a thorough review of all buses and trains under its operation or those operated by contracted entities to identify any "kill switch" or remote access features that may pose cybersecurity or operational risks. A "kill switch" is defined as any technology that allows for the remote disabling or control of a bus or train's essential functions without proper authorization. The review will be conducted in consultation with the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, focusing on the potential risks associated with these features.
If the NJT determines that a kill switch or similar feature presents a cybersecurity or operational risk and is not essential for public safety or regulatory compliance, the bill requires the corporation to remove, permanently disable, or mitigate the feature as appropriate. However, the bill allows for the retention of any kill switch deemed necessary for emergency safety functions, provided that adequate safeguards and access controls are in place. This legislation aims to enhance the safety and security of public transportation in New Jersey by addressing potential vulnerabilities in transit technology.