Governor Murphy signs legislation creating Target Zero Commission
Commission Aims to End Traffic Fatalities in New Jersey
NEW JERSEY – Governor Phil Murphy Monday signed A1476/S361 into law, creating the Target Zero Commission with the goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries in New Jersey by 2040.
The 13-member group will consist of state officials from the Department of Transportation (DOT), State Police, along with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, regional transportation officials, and others who will work together to make New Jersey’s roads safer for drivers and pedestrians.
Governor Murphy was joined at the bill’s signing by Arland Macasieb, a cyclist and former professional triathlete who survived a life-altering crash with a car while riding his bike on a New Jersey road in 2021. Despite ongoing medical challenges due to his injuries from the crash, Macasieb continues to advocate for legislation that increases safety for cyclists and non-motorists.
“The actions we take today will ensure that New Jersey families no longer have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to traffic fatalities. The Commission will collaborate to prioritize safety and mobility, forging a clear path to making sure everyone, whether walking, biking, driving, or using public transit, can travel safely in New Jersey,” Murphy said.
Traffic deaths and injuries have sharply increased in New Jersey. From 2023 to 2024, fatalities increased 14% and pedestrian fatalities increased 32%.
The Target Zero Commission will focus on data-driven strategies that prioritize roadway design, speed management, and safety for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. The Commission will advise the Governor, Legislature, and the DOT regarding policies, programs, research, and priorities that will aid in attaining the goal of eliminating traffic fatalities.
Under the law, the Commission is directed to propose an action plan within one year of the bill’s signing, with a chance for the public to provide feedback on the proposed plan. The Commission will also collect traffic safety data for the public, including data on dangerous intersections and crash demographics. Additionally, the Commission will provide data and resources to local municipalities to assist them in developing their own Target Zero plans.
“I share Governor Murphy’s vision that a stronger New Jersey includes making sure that everyone, whether walking, biking, driving or using public transit, can travel safely,” said DOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor. “The New Jersey Department of Transportation takes the responsibility of improving roadway safety very seriously and is committed to eliminating roadway fatalities. This commission will explore new ideas and technologies to create actionable strategies to address critical roadways safety issues in New Jersey.”
“The Target Zero Commission represents a powerful collaboration between state agencies, and the people of New Jersey to achieve a singular, life-saving goal: eliminating traffic fatalities,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “By leveraging data-driven strategies and prioritizing roadway design, speed management, and equity, we can ensure that every pedestrian, cyclist, and driver has a safer journey. Together, we’re not just creating safer roads—we’re building stronger communities and a brighter future for every resident of our state.”
“As the most densely populated state in the nation, it is critically important that New Jersey uses all available tools to ensure that pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers share the road safely,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “This bill creates a commission that brings together experts in transportation and traffic safety to advise lawmakers on the kinds of research and public policies that will eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries.”
“This bill exemplifies New Jersey’s strong commitment to traffic safety,” said Michael J. Rizol Jr., Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Our collective and collaborative efforts are essential in ensuring that New Jersey roads become even safer for all. I look forward to participating in this important work.”
“With the signing of this important legislation, the Motor Vehicle Commission looks forward to joining partners across government in developing a comprehensive plan to make transportation safer and more accessible for all New Jerseyans as part of the Target Zero Commission,” said Motor Vehicle Commission Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd. “Through collaborative efforts that push towards a ‘target zero’ future, we will work to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities, make our roads less hazardous, and develop policies and strategies that will better protect our residents as they go about their lives and navigate our state’s busy transportation system.”
The primary sponsors of the Target Zero Commission legislation are Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, Assemblyman John Allen, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, Senator Patrick Diegnan, and Senator Raj Mukherji.
