Garden State Times

Senator Joe Pennacchio has reached out to Governor Murphy, urging him to cancel the tolling contract with TransCore, which is responsible for managing New Jersey's E-ZPass system. Pennacchio expressed concerns over security issues due to alleged ties between TransCore and China.

In his letter, Pennacchio stated: "It is unconscionable that we would willingly allow any business that has ties with a foreign adversary to manage our tolling systems, enabling them to monitor the movement of citizens, government officials, and potentially critical cargo. The sensitive nature of the data involved in tolling operations—including personal information, financial records, and travel patterns—raises significant national security and privacy concerns."

He further emphasized the heightened tensions between the United States and China as a reason for concern. "This is especially concerning at a time when tensions between the United States and Chinese governments are at an all-time high. Given these concerns, I believe it is appropriate and proper to thoroughly re-evaluate or void New Jersey Turnpike Authority’s tolling contract with TransCore and reopen the bidding process to ensure the safety, security, and privacy of all New Jerseyans. It is imperative that we prioritize national security and ensure that our state infrastructure and citizens’ data remain protected from foreign surveillance and interference."

The full letter can be accessed online.