Car storage and shipping businesses would have to guard against stolen cars

People and companies that handle car shipments would have to take reasonable steps to keep stolen vehicles from entering or leaving New Jersey. The duty covers anyone offering to store cars, move them, or arrange their transport. The duty would start immediately if the bill becomes law.

The Attorney General could ask a court to impose a civil penalty on someone who violates the duty. The penalties apply to people who store, transport, or arrange transport for stolen cars in violation of the duty. A first violation carries a penalty of up to $1 million per stolen car; a later offense carries a penalty of up to $5 million. Someone who received a car to return it to its owner can raise that as a defense. A criminal conviction is not required. The penalty rules would start immediately if the bill becomes law.