OOIDA Information Update - New Jersey Members
February 16, 2007

New Jersey truckers! Members of the public have a chance to tell state officials what they think of proposals to privatize the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.

The Senate Transportation Committee has scheduled public hearings for Monday, Feb. 26, and Thursday, March 1, to discuss the bill - S2539 - which would authorize leasing the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway to private businesses. The times and locations of the hearings have not yet been announced. We will provide that information as soon as it becomes available.

Those who oppose privatization believe the private sector will put profits ahead of maintenance, safety, and smooth travel. The companies lining up for these deals see long-term cash flow and guaranteed, healthy profits at the public's expense. The private sector is accountable to their shareholders, not to the public.

Deals like the ones proposed by S2539 are akin to a pawnshop mentality of hocking your assets for cash now, but paying much more down the road.

You are encouraged to attend the hearings to make sure your views are known. If you are unable to attend you can voice your concerns to the Senate Transportation Committee members prior to the meeting dates.

Contact information for committee members is listed below:

Sen. Nicholas J. Sacco, chairman
Phone: (201) 295-0200
E-mail: SenSacco@njleg.org

Sen. Fred H. Madden, vice-chairman
Phone: (856) 227-5900
E-mail: SenMadden@njleg.org

Sen. R. Ciesla
Phone: (732) 840-9028
E-mail: SenCiesla@njleg.org

Sen. Ellen Karcher
Phone: (732) 462-8838
E-mail: SenKarcher@njleg.org

Sen. Henry P. McNamara
Phone: (201) 848-9600
E-mail: SenMcNamara@njleg.org