NJ S1985

New Jersey State Police would be required to maintain a 24-hour toll-free hotline accepting anonymous tips via telephone or text message about potential threats to school safety and security.

The hotline would allow students, parents, school staff, and the public to report unsafe, suspicious, dangerous, or criminal activities in schools, including violence, assaults, suicide threats, and bullying.

Reporter identities would remain anonymous unless the individual voluntarily discloses their identity and authorizes sharing with law enforcement and school officials.

State Police must share relevant tips with local law enforcement agencies and school superintendents or administrators to facilitate prompt investigation and intervention.

The bill takes effect on the first day of the third month following enactment, and hotline information must be distributed to all public and nonpublic schools statewide.