Transportation

This bill extends the authorization for "Don't Block the Box" automated traffic cameras in New Jersey from January 2027 to January 2030. It allows state and local governments to continue using these sensors to detect vehicles that block intersections, provided the systems are approved for accuracy and can capture license plate images. The legislation maintains existing rules that prohibit using the collected data for tracking individuals or selling information to third parties, while also restricting private company payments to equipment fees rather than revenue sharing.

This bill amends the Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act to raise the threshold for declaring a vehicle a total loss from 80% to 85% of its actual cash value. The legislation also adds specific provisions requiring insurers to honor consumer requests to pay directly to chosen rental car companies, auto body shops, and restoration companies up to $5,000. Additionally, the bill mandates that insurers use complete, industry-recognized repair manuals and software systems when assessing vehicle damage and requires licensed appraisers for vehicles with damage exceeding $2,500. These changes directly affect insurance companies, policyholders, and repair facilities by establishing clearer standards for claims handling and vehicle repair processes.

HB 7437 extends the expiration date for "Don't Block the Box" automated traffic violation detection systems from January 15, 2027, to January 15, 2030. This bill does not change how the systems operate or who can use them, only delays the deadline for discontinuing the technology. The systems monitor vehicles running red lights at intersections to prevent blocking crosswalks and are used by state and local governments. Municipalities and the state Department of Transportation directly benefit from this extension, allowing continued use for three more years.

This bill establishes definitions and a regulatory framework for public-private partnerships in state procurement, allowing state agencies to enter into long-term contracts with private entities for developing, financing, constructing, or maintaining public assets. The legislation requires agencies to conduct value-for-money analyses comparing partnership options against traditional methods and mandates competitive procurement processes with detailed evaluation criteria. Key provisions include requirements for prevailing wages, labor harmony plans, oversight responsibilities, and a study on project labor agreements for contracts exceeding $25 million, while maintaining state accountability for delegated functions.

Requires any contractor performing construction or maintenance for RIDOT, RITBA or any other construction on any state roads have in place an attenuator truck/crash truck with an operational camera.