Bill > S1797

This bill amends existing New Jersey law to prohibit transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft, from using "surge pricing" during a declared "state of emergency." A "state of emergency" is defined as a natural disaster or emergency declared by the President or Governor, and "surge pricing" refers to charging riders higher fares than usual, often through a rate multiplier, during times of high demand. Specifically, the bill mandates that immediately following the declaration of a state of emergency and for 72 hours thereafter, transportation network companies cannot engage in surge pricing in the affected area. If the state of emergency continues beyond 72 hours, the Governor can extend this prohibition in 72-hour increments. The bill also clarifies that any fare increase exceeding double the usual rate is considered surge pricing and imposes penalties for violations, with fines of up to $10,000 for a first offense and up to $20,000 for subsequent offenses.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S1797