Bill
Bill > S331
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill requires motor vehicle rental companies to permit a customer to return a motor vehicle 24 hours per day. Currently, after-hours vehicle returns are not available at all car rental locations or by all rental companies. Unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic or air travel delays, may create conditions that make it problematic for a rented vehicle to be returned within standard business hours. This creates an inconvenience to the customer and, in some cases, an added expense. This bill requires rental companies to develop a method for customers to return vehicles after-hours. A violation of the bill's provisions results in a civil penalty of $2,500 for a first offense and up to $5,000 for any subsequent offense, which may be collected and enforced by the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs.
AI Summary
This bill mandates that motor vehicle rental companies must offer a 24-hour drop-off or return service for rented vehicles, addressing the current inconvenience and potential added expenses customers face when unable to return a car within standard business hours due to unforeseen delays. The law, which applies to owners in the business of renting motor vehicles, requires these companies to establish a system allowing for after-hours returns, and failure to comply will result in a civil penalty of up to $2,500 for a first offense and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses, with enforcement handled by the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Commerce Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S331 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S0500/331_I1.HTM |
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