ASSEMBLY TRANSPORTATION AND INDEPENDENT AUTHORITIES COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 5334

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  MARCH 15, 2021

      The Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee reports favorably and with committee amendments Assembly Bill No. 5334.

      As amended and reported, this bill requires the Department of Transportation (DOT), the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT), and the Department of Human Services (DHS) to conduct a holistic review of current infrastructure design practices for public highways and public transportation projects.  Upon completion of the review, new and revised design practices are to be adopted that will result in projects that promote the ability of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities to travel independently.

     DOT, NJT, and DHS are also to conduct a study of nationwide best practices that identifies ways to operate public roadway facilities, public transportation services, and mobility programs operated or funded under the DHS in a manner that makes transportation services and mobility programs more accessible for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities

     The DOT is required to encourage regional and local entities that apply for funding through the local aid program to adopt infrastructure design practices and best practices that are consistent with State practices.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS

      The committee amendments make a technical correction by inserting two commas into and removing one comma from the text of the bill.  The committee amendments clarify a reference to the Department of Transportation in the bill and amend the synopsis to indicate that the Department of Human Services is also required to study and implement transportation mobility and accessibility improvements for persons with autism and developmental disabilities.