TRENTON, NJ – A pilot program proposed by State Senator Troy Singleton (D-Burlington) to stop overdoses on NJ Transit's RiverLine is moving through the legislative process.

Under the proposed law, a pilot program aimed at preparedness and providing opioid antidotes on the River Line for the purpose of responding to opioid overdoses would be established.

“Though an opioid overdose on the River Line should never be a regular or expected occurrence, I believe it is best to prepared for all types of emergencies,” said Singleton. “We will continue to work with NJ Transit to improve safety and reliability, and this is yet another way we can ensure that the River Line does not see future tragedies.” 

Under Senate Bill 3932 (S-3932), NJ Transit would establish a two-year pilot program, in consultation with the Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Services, to provide an opioid antidote on every light rail train set that operates in the southern part of New Jersey.

NJTransit would be required to prepare a written report on the effectiveness of the pilot program along with recommendations on whether or not to implement a permanent program statewide within six months of the expiration of the pilot program. The program would be funded with a $100,000 appropriation. 

The legislation was passed by the Senate Transportation Committee on Monday, May 12. 

In October, the Singleton hosted a public meeting with NJ Transit executives to respond to safety concerns and continuous service interruptions. Since then, NJ Transit  has been taking steps to improve pedestrian safety with improved signage and education programs, as well as to ensure better service reliability.  

Original Article