New Jersey is one step closer to being able to collect unpaid tolls from drivers residing out of state. A bill, put forth by Assemblyman Bill Moen, received approval from the transportation committee. This legislation allows toll authorities in the Garden State to collaborate with those in other states, enforcing penalties against toll evaders and collecting due tolls.
The proposed law stipulates stringent measures against habitual violators. For example, suspension of vehicle registration could be the consequence if a driver incurs six or more toll violations or owes more than 500 dollars in unpaid tolls.
Furthermore, this bill introduces penalties for first-time offenders hailing from out of state. Penalties can reach up to $100 and escalate for repeat offenders. These measures aim to discourage drivers from avoiding toll payments and ensure all road users contribute to their maintenance.
Assemblyman Moen emphasized the importance of all road users contributing to the upkeep of New Jersey's roads. He argued that penalties should be faced by those who fail to do so.
This move comes at a time when toll evasion has become a significant concern. In 2022, unpaid tolls totaled 47.2 million dollars on the New Jersey Turnpike and 9 million dollars on the Garden State Parkway.
In addition to this legislation, a shift towards a cashless toll collection system has been initiated by New Jersey. Work on the 30.59 million dollar all-electric collection system is expected to commence in late 2024 or early 2025.