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NJ A657

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Gregory McGuckin

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Adds mandatory six-month imprisonment or six-month community service for burglary, robbery, or theft (looting) committed during a declared state of emergency
  • Mandatory penalties apply in addition to existing criminal penalties under New Jersey's theft, robbery, and burglary statutes (Title 2C)
  • Clarifies that penalties under the Disaster Control Act apply during ongoing emergencies, not just during the threat or imminence of an emergency
  • Violations are prosecuted in municipal court where the offense occurred, with the State required to prove all elements beyond a reasonable doubt
  • Amends P.L.1942, c.251 (the Disaster Control Act), which covers emergencies from natural or unnatural causes endangering health, safety, or resources

Legislative Description

Establishes mandatory penalties for committing burglary and theft during a state of emergency.

Judiciary

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee

1/13/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available