If you thought you were tuning into an old episode of Hollywood Squares and looking for Paul Lynde in the central square, you were probably diappointed to learn you were actually watching the Assembly Transportation Committee’s zoom hearing in the middle of a paandemic.

To ensure people with disabilities continue to have access to appropriate modes of public transportation, the  committee cleared a measure Monday requiring NJ TRANSIT to operate its Access Link paratransit service in certain areas where safe during a state of emergency.

Sponsors of the bill (A-1155), Assembly Democrats Roy Freiman (D-16), Carol Murphy (D-7) and Christopher Tully (D-38), issued the following joint statement:

“Troubling reports of transit services on Access Link being cancelled during a state of emergency while other services continue to operate have recently come to light. With nearly a quarter of New Jersey adults left vulnerable by a physical or developmental disability, this servicing disruption and inefficiency is highly problematic.

“Many rely on Access Link to be able to travel to work, day programs and to their doctor or hospitals where they receive medical care – even under a state of emergency. If risk to riders and drivers can be mitigated on transit in certain service areas during a state of emergency, routes for those with disabilities must also be maintained.”