NJ A2946

Prosecutors may file a motion to have defendants transported to a mental health screening service to assess whether involuntary commitment is needed, based on reasonable cause to believe the defendant's mental illness makes them a danger to self, others, or property.

Defendants who were involuntarily committed to psychiatric treatment within the previous three years must be referred to a screening service for evaluation before standard pretrial release procedures apply.

Defendants found to need inpatient involuntary commitment would be sent to the Ann Klein Forensic Center in Trenton or another secure psychiatric facility designated for the criminally insane, rather than jail detention.

Creates a new sentencing aggravating factor for crimes committed in places of public accommodation or on public transportation capital equipment and facilities.

For charges involving crimes against persons or property that risk causing bodily injury, defendants must be detained pending trial unless the court finds evidence beyond a reasonable doubt that release conditions would ensure public safety and court appearance.