NJ S4978

Upgrades criminal trespassing from a disorderly persons offense to a fourth degree crime (up to 18 months imprisonment, $10,000 fine) when the trespasser possesses a firearm, regardless of whether they hold a valid carry permit

Elevates trespassing in schools, dwellings, research facilities, power plants, water treatment facilities, airports, and similar sensitive locations from a fourth degree crime to a third degree crime (3-5 years imprisonment, $15,000 fine) when a firearm is possessed

Increases the penalty for defiant trespassing (entering property with posted "no trespassing" notice) from a petty disorderly persons offense to a disorderly persons offense (up to 6 months imprisonment, $1,000 fine) when carrying a firearm

Creates a legal inference that anyone carrying a firearm into a location with posted "no firearms" signage knowingly entered without authorization and did not reasonably believe they had permission to be there

Applies enhanced penalties regardless of whether the person holds a valid permit to carry a handgun under N.J.S.2C:58-4