NJ A954

Law enforcement agencies must submit sexual assault evidence (rape kits) to the State Police Central Laboratory or an approved laboratory within 10 business days of receipt.

Laboratories must analyze submitted sexual assault evidence within six months of receipt, contingent on sufficient staffing and resources being available.

Law enforcement agencies must report to the Superintendent of State Police within 45 days of the act's effective date the number of unsubmitted sexual assault cases in their custody, with arrangements for submission of backlogged cases due within 180 days.

Law enforcement officers or employees who knowingly violate the 10-business-day submission requirement face civil penalties of $1,000 for a first violation, $2,500 for a second, and $5,000 for subsequent violations, unless they made reasonable efforts to comply.

The Superintendent must submit a plan to the Governor, Attorney General, and legislative leaders within 120 days detailing timelines, inventory, and funding needs for analyzing backlogged cases.