Transportation (Transportation Funding)

This bill amends New Jersey's existing transportation funding law to prevent money from a proposed increase in the petroleum products gross receipts tax from being used for passenger or freight rail projects. The legislation directly affects the state's transportation budget and the allocation of tax revenue collected from fuel sales. By explicitly excluding rail projects from the list of allowable uses for this specific tax revenue, the bill ensures that funds raised through the petroleum tax increase are directed toward other transportation infrastructure needs rather than rail development. The measure modifies the legal framework governing how the Special Transportation Fund can be utilized, creating a clear restriction on spending priorities for this particular revenue stream.

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment requiring New Jersey voters to approve any dedicated revenue source before the state or transportation authorities can issue bonds for transportation projects. It would apply specifically to funding for roads, bridges, transit systems, and related infrastructure (planning, construction, repair, etc.). The state would need to identify a specific revenue source (like a tax or fee) and secure voter approval at a general election prior to borrowing. This requirement would not apply to refinancing existing debt or emergencies, but would affect all future transportation bond issuances.

New Jersey's A 180 prohibits the state from charging drivers based on miles traveled. It defines a "mileage-based user fee" as any charge calculated by vehicle miles driven during a set period. The bill also bans state funding for any related programs, studies, or pilot projects. This law takes effect immediately.

This bill amends New Jersey's transportation funding law to specifically exclude passenger and freight rail projects from using revenue generated by increases in the petroleum products gross receipts tax (established by P.L.2016, c.57). It prevents state funds from this tax source from being allocated to any rail-related transportation projects, including passenger rail service or freight rail service. The change directly affects rail project funding by restricting the use of this specific tax revenue stream. The amendment is part of a broader update to the Special Transportation Fund rules, ensuring rail projects cannot access this particular tax revenue.

This bill (S 1724) prohibits New Jersey from implementing any fee based on how many miles drivers travel in the state. It specifically bans the state from charging vehicle owners or operators a fee calculated by mileage, and also prevents state funds from being used for any related studies, pilot programs, or initiatives. The law applies to all motor vehicles and takes immediate effect. It does not affect existing vehicle taxes or fees like gas taxes.