New Jersey Senate passes new Port Authority overhaul bill

The New Jersey Senate has passed legislation to overhaul the bi-state agency that controls the region's airports, bridges and tunnels, though the measure differs from reforms passed in New York.

The Democrat-led Senate approved the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey bill Thursday.

New York and New Jersey must enact identical legislation for the changes to take effect. These include whistleblower protections and the establishment of a rotating chairmanship.

The states have failed to iron out differences since New York lawmakers, Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Gov. Chris Christie backed legislation in June.

New York's officials agreed to a bill that mirrors a proposal from New Jersey Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr., which Christie has backed.

The biggest difference is a provision seeking legislative oversight of the agency.

(Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)