TRENTON, N.J. The state Senate Transportation Committee on Feb. 9 approved a measure aimed at making the theft of E-ZPass tags a distinct crime. “E-ZPass has proven to be a great time-saver for many New Jersey drivers, but the small size of the responders make them a popular target for thieves,” said Sen. Nicholas J. Sacco, D-Bergen and Hudson counties, chairman of the committee. “Those drivers who use E-ZPass for their tolls shouldn’t be at more risk for theft than people who pay cash.” Under the bill, E-ZPass thieves would face up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Victims who report the loss would not be responsible for unauthorized charges of $50 or more made before the report, and would not have to pay any charges incurred after the report, as well as any fees to replace the tag. The bill now returns for consideration before the full Senate, which approved it 40-0 in 2004. The Assembly did not act on the bill, so it expired last month and was reintroduced.