NJ bill would let Uber, Lyft offer more rides to seniors, people with disabilities

The New Jersey Assembly Approves Legislation to Expand Transportation Options for Seniors and People with Disabilities

The state Assembly voted unanimously this week to allow New Jersey seniors and those with disabilities to use rideshare companies and taxis as an alternative to Access Link, the NJ Transit service that has faced criticism and lawsuits over its performance.

Legislation Details

The bipartisan legislation, A2607, passed Tuesday in a 74-0 vote, but must still win approval from the state Senate and Gov. Phil Murphy to become law. It would allow NJ Transit to work with a variety of transportation providers, including taxi services and rideshare companies, currently barred from contracting with the agency.

Importance of the Legislation

“Our most vulnerable residents depend on reliable transportation to get the medical care they need, groceries, and life-sustaining services,” one of the co-sponsors, state Assemblyman Michael Inganamort, said in a statement. He emphasized the need to address the transportation needs of all New Jersey residents, especially those living in rural communities with limited options.

Access Link Pilot Program

Access Link, the NJ Transit service, has faced scrutiny and legal action in recent years. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey reached two settlements with NJ Transit in 2022, requiring the agency to make significant improvements. These changes include station upgrades, reduced hold times for assistance calls, improved on-time performance for pickups, and better performance tracking.

A pilot program initiated in 2023 allowed some Access Link users to utilize rideshares and taxis as an alternative. This pilot program has resulted in shorter wait times and quicker trips for customers.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This legislation aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

1. Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being – By providing reliable transportation options for seniors and people with disabilities, the legislation ensures they have access to necessary medical care and life-sustaining services.
2. Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The legislation promotes innovation by allowing NJ Transit to collaborate with various transportation providers, including rideshare companies and taxis.
3. Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities – By expanding transportation options, the legislation aims to reduce inequalities faced by vulnerable residents, particularly those living in rural communities with limited access to transportation.
4. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The legislation contributes to creating sustainable communities by improving transportation services and making them more accessible for all residents.

Next Steps

The companion bill in the state Senate, S360, has been referred to the Budget and Appropriations Committee. If approved by the state Senate and signed into law by Gov. Phil Murphy, this legislation will significantly enhance transportation options for seniors and people with disabilities in New Jersey.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential healthcare services, and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all
   • Indicator: The article mentions that “Our most vulnerable residents depend on reliable transportation to get the medical care they need, groceries and life-sustaining services.”

2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all
   • Indicator: The article discusses the legislation that would allow NJ Transit to work with a variety of transportation providers, including taxi services and rideshare companies, currently barred from contracting with the agency. This indicates a focus on developing alternative transportation infrastructure.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
   • Indicator: The article mentions that the legislation aims to address the needs of vulnerable residents, especially those living in rural communities who currently have very few transportation options. This indicates a focus on reducing inequalities in access to transportation services.

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Source: northjersey.com

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