New Jersey bill offering 50% toll, NJ Transit discounts for veterans advances in Senate
TRENTON, N.J. — Legislation that would provide a 50% discount on certain tolls and NJ Transit fares for military service members, veterans, auxiliary members and Gold Star family members has advanced out of the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
The bipartisan bill, S-4464, is sponsored by state Sens. Carmen Amato Jr., R-Ocean; Angela McKnight, D-Hudson; and Raj Mukherji, D-Hudson. The measure is now referred to the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee for further consideration.
Under the legislation, eligible individuals would receive a 50% discount on tolls collected by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, South Jersey Transportation Authority, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Delaware River and Bay Authority, and Delaware River Port Authority.
To qualify for the toll discount, vehicles would need to be registered in New Jersey, owned or leased by an eligible service member, veteran, auxiliary member or Gold Star family member, and linked to an active E-ZPass account.
The legislation would also require NJ Transit to establish and maintain a 50% fare discount for eligible individuals using its transportation services.
“For the nearly 285,000 veterans who call New Jersey home, tolls can add up quickly for those commuting to work, traveling for doctor appointments, or making the drive to spend time with family,” said Sen. Amato. “This bill is a simple way to recognize their sacrifice by making those everyday trips affordable.”
Supporters say the proposed discounts would help reduce transportation expenses for military families and veterans who regularly use toll roads, bridges, tunnels and public transportation.
The legislation would apply to qualifying service members, veterans, auxiliary members and Gold Star family members, including families who have lost a loved one during military service.
The measure must advance through the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee before it can receive further consideration in the Legislature.
