Dear Editor:
The purpose of this letter is to bring to your attention a newly enacted law, specifically N.J.S.2C:40-23 Production, delivery of ignition key, documentation required. The law strictly prohibits production of motor vehicle keys based on the motor vehicle identification number without obtaining and making a record of certain information.
The new law states:
2C:40-23 Production, delivery of ignition key, documentation required.
1. a. No person shall produce and deliver an ignition key or other device designed to operate a lock or locks on a motor vehicle or start a motor vehicle to any person on the basis of a motor vehicle identification number without obtaining and making a record of:
(1) Proof that a person requesting the ignition key or other device is the owner or lessee of the vehicle, or is a member of the same household as the owner or lessee of the vehicle, and which, at a minimum, shall include one of the following: a valid motor vehicle registration certificate, a valid insurance identification card, a valid insurance policy or a certificate of ownership; and
(2) Identification of the person requesting the ignition key or other device, which identification shall include a photograph of the person.
b. The records made pursuant to the requirements of subsection a. of this section shall be retained for five years.
c. Nothing in this act shall be construed to deny a lessor or leinholder lawful access to a motor vehicle.
d. A person who violates any provision of this act shall be guilty of a disorderly persons offense, except that notwithstanding the provision of subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:43-3, a fine of not more than $2,000 may be imposed.
The law specifically states that any person who shall produce and deliver ignitions keys or other devices designed to operate a lock or locks on a motor vehicle, or start a motor vehicle, must maintain a “record”. A written record of the transaction must be retained for five (5) years.
Please be advised that police officers and detectives have been instructed to conduct unannounced inspections to ascertain whether appropriate and accurate records are maintained by individuals engaged in the business of production and delivery of ignition keys or other devices designed to operate a lock or locks on a motor vehicle, or start a motor vehicle. Any person violating the provisions of the law will be subject to arrest.
I look forward to working together with our local businesses in a continuing effort to reduce motor vehicle thefts.
Chief Ron Buonocore, Acting Director of Police
Jersey City Police Department