The proposed bill establishes the Transportation Authority of New Jersey, which will consolidate the governance and oversight of several existing transportation entities, including the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, New Jersey Transit Corporation, and the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund Authority. This new authority will operate independently of the New Jersey Department of Transportation while being allocated within it. The bill outlines the structure of the authority's board, consisting of a chair and 16 voting members appointed by the Governor, and details its responsibilities, including transportation planning, budget management, and legal services. It also specifies a timeline for the transfer of powers from existing entities to the new authority, ensuring the preservation of existing contracts and employee rights during the transition.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legislation to redefine the governing body of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority as the leadership committee established by the Transportation Authority of New Jersey. It revises Section 5 of P.L.1948, c.454 (C.27:23-5) by deleting a general grant of powers and inserting specific powers for the authority, such as adopting bylaws, managing transportation projects, and acquiring property through eminent domain. The bill also introduces provisions for competitive bidding on towing and storage services, clarifies the powers of the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund Authority, and streamlines governance by removing specific committee requirements. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance operational efficiency, accountability, and collaboration within New Jersey's transportation system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:23-5, 27:1B-6, 27:25-4.1, 27:25-5, 27:1A-5, 27:1B-22