New Jersey Bill Would Mandate ATM Panic Buttons
Barbara Hurst, BOL Guru
Guru BIOS
The debate over whether to force banks to install 911 buttons on automated teller machines was reignited in New Jersey recently when a bill was introduced in the State Assembly.
The bill, which was introduced by Deputy Majority Leader Neil M. Cohen, would require that, in areas of the state that have 911 emergency service available, automated teller machines must have a direct connection with that service. The bill also requires that a notice be placed on the machines that warns that anyone who knowingly places a false alarm through the "panic" button, can be criminally prosecuted.
This is the third time Cohen has introduced such legislation, which he says will save lives and act as a deterrent to ATM robberies. An identical bill was introduced in the New Jersey senate, and similar bills have been introduced in New York's legislative arena.
Many community bankers object to mandating such buttons, saying that they could incite violence as easily as deter it. Banks have also objected to the significant financial cost that could be involved.
Copyright © 2004 Bankers' Hotline. Originally appeared in Bankers' Hotline, Vol. 14, No. 3, 7/05
Privacy Policy Disclaimer Recommend This Site ! Contact Us
BankersOnline is a free service made possible by the generous support of our advertisers and sponsors. Advertisers and sponsors are not responsible for site content. Please help us keep BankersOnline FREE to all banking professionals. Support our advertisers and sponsors by clicking through to learn more about their products and services.
|
Print Friendly!
Email This Article!
Discuss NOW!