EATONTOWN, NJ – Let’s face it, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission is a mess in the aftermath of bad decision making, poor planning and confusing policies at the hands of the administration of Governor Phil Murphy.
Now, Republicans are hoping to get Democrats on board to start fixing the ailing commission to make it easier for people to once again received the necessary services required to operate motor vehicles across the state.
Senator Anthony M. Bucco is introducing legislation that would end some of the confusing, inconvenient policies that have plagued New Jersey motorists conducting business at Motor Vehicle Commission locations. The measure would require every NJMVC agency to provide in-person vehicle and licensing services for senior citizens and those with disabilities.
“All New Jersey residents should have convenient access to all Motor Vehicle Commission services, including those who have disabilities or lack access to reliable high-speed internet,” said Bucco (R-25). “If the MVC and the Administration won’t open all agencies for all services, the very least we can do is accommodate our seniors and the disabled.”
During COVID, the commission designated agency locations as either a licensing centers or a vehicle center and required some services to be completed online. Those policies remain in effect, making it more difficult for some residents who face mobility challenges, Bucco said in a press release today.
“To access certain in-demand services, people are required to travel to designated locations. That can often mean driving a half hour or more out of their way, often passing other MVC facilities, for a routine transaction,” Bucco continued. “It is unreasonable and unnecessary. People shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to get paperwork or register a car they purchased from a private seller.”
“The health emergency is over, and it is time to take steps to better accommodate residents who require a higher level of service,” Bucco said. “With some sensible adjustments, my bill will help make Motor Vehicles more user friendly. Our seniors and persons with disabilities deserve that.”