TRENTON, N.J. — A New Jersey lawmaker is raising concerns over a state transportation contract awarded to a Singapore-based company with alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party. The deal, which involves managing the E-ZPass toll system, is not yet finalized, according to Assemblyman Paul Kanitra, who says Republicans are working to prevent its completion.
Kanitra, a Republican representing New Jersey’s 10th District, took to social media to voice opposition.
“NJ Turnpike awards the contract. Our sources are saying it’s still not totally finalized and we’re trying to stop that!” he posted on X, formerly Twitter.
New Jersey Assemblymen Paul Kanitra and Greg McGuckin are calling for an investigation into the state’s EZ Pass contract, citing concerns over security and transparency in the bidding process.
In a statement, Kanitra revealed that he and McGuckin have contacted the Office of Legislative Services and are working on a legislative remedy to withdraw New Jersey from what he described as a “dangerous EZ Pass contract.”
“The EZ Pass situation is a genuine national security concern that affects any New Jerseyan driving our toll roads,” Kanitra said.
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The lawmakers also raised questions about the recent awarding of the contract, noting that a New Jersey-based company that had previously serviced EZ Pass allegedly submitted a bid $250 million lower than the winning bidder but was still not selected.
Kanitra emphasized the need for a full investigation and assured the public that efforts are underway to scrutinize the decision-making process.
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority, which oversees E-ZPass, awarded the contract, but officials have not confirmed whether all necessary approvals have been secured. Concerns over foreign influence and data security have fueled Republican efforts to halt the agreement.
It remains unclear what steps lawmakers can take to overturn the decision, but the issue is drawing increasing political scrutiny.