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NJ A766

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Gary Schaer

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Repeals N.J.S.A. 2B:24-17 (Section 17 of P.L.1997, c.256), eliminating municipal authority to charge application fees for municipal public defender services
  • Current law allows municipalities to impose fees up to $200 on individuals applying for municipal public defender representation
  • Courts currently may waive the fee if it represents an unreasonable burden, but this bill removes the fee entirely
  • Sponsors intend to eliminate financial barriers to the Sixth Amendment right to counsel for individuals accused of crimes
  • Takes effect immediately upon enactment

Legislative Description

Removes municipal authority to charge application fee for representation by municipal public defender.

Judiciary

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee

1/13/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available