New Jersey Delays Vote on ‘Electronic’ Auto Insurance Bill

The Assembly has delayed a vote on a measure that would allow drivers in New Jersey to use smart phones, computers or tablets to prove they carry auto insurance during traffic stops.

The bill was due to be voted on Monday, but it was pulled from the agenda without explanation.

The bill would authorize drivers to use an electronic form of their car insurance coverage. That means motorists won’t necessarily have to carry a paper copy to prove they are covered.

The measure also states that the use of an electronic format doesn’t mean the user consents to a police search of the device.

Drivers must now provide proof of insurance in paper form. The bill would permit them to use either paper or electronic formats.