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NJ S3315
Bill
Status
2/5/2026
Primary Sponsor
Carmen Amato
Click for details
AI Summary
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Prohibits punitive damages against public entities and public employees acting within the scope of their employment in all civil actions, including claims under the Law Against Discrimination and the Conscientious Employee Protection Act (whistleblower law).
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Amends the New Jersey Tort Claims Act (N.J.S.59:9-2) to clarify that the existing ban on punitive damages against government defendants applies regardless of other statutory remedies available.
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Overrides the 1994 New Jersey Supreme Court decision in Abbamont v. Piscataway Township Board of Education, which had allowed punitive damages against public employees in LAD and CEPA cases.
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Applies to all causes of action pending or filed on or after the effective date, taking effect immediately upon enactment.
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Sponsored by Senator Carmen F. Amato, Jr. (District 9, Ocean County) and introduced February 5, 2026 in the 222nd Legislature.
Legislative Description
Clarifies that punitive damages may not be awarded against public entities or public employees acting within the scope of their employment in any action.
Judiciary
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
2/5/2026