Department of Transportation proposing to readopt rules on Smart Moves Program

The New Jersey Department of Transportation is proposing to readopt with amendments, repeals, recodifications, and new rules, N.J.A.C. 16:50, the rules governing the Department’s regulations on the Smart Moves Program. The rules set forth the criteria and procedures for employer eligibility for tax credits which are incentives for employers to implement voluntary trip reduction programs. These programs seek to reduce work-related vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled to and from the worksite by encouraging employees to use public transit, to share rides in carpools and vanpools, and to use other commuting alternatives. The Challenge Grant Program has been terminated by the Department, and all references to it have been deleted from the rule. The Department now supports the NJ Smart Workplaces Program, which is a partnership between the eight Transportation Management Associations and the Department. The proposed amendments and new rules concern the remaining part of the rule which outlines employer tax credit eligibility for specific expenses incurred to provide commuter transportation benefits. The provision granting tax credits to employers incurring expenses to provide commuter transportation benefits in support of a Smart Moves for Business Program ended on December 31, 2007. Companies that made use of this provision may still request a tax credit for 2007,

The proposed rule appears in the May 5, 2008 issue of the New Jersey Register. The public has until July 4, 2008 to comment on the proposal. Persons wishing to comment on the proposal must provide their comments in writing to Miriam Crum, Administrative Practice Officer, NJ Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, PO Box 600, Trenton, NJ 08625-0600. Fax: (609) 530-3841. Comments must be postmarked or sent by telefacsimile on or before July 4, 2008 which is the close of the 60-day public comment period.

Comments submitted to the Department on the proposed rulemaking are public records and are available for public inspection by prior appointment during normal Department business hours.

Approved by: ________________________
Kris Kolluri, Commissioner