NJ S4043

Expands mandatory criminal history background checks to all youth-serving organizations, including sports teams, leagues, athletic associations, and private athletic lesson providers, covering both nonprofit and for-profit entities serving persons under 18

Requires annual background checks for all employees, volunteers, and organizers, with checks conducted through the State Bureau of Identification and FBI; equivalent checks from national/international athletic associations satisfy the requirement for that calendar year

Civil penalties for organizations failing to request background checks: up to $500 for first offense, up to $750 for second offense, and up to $1,000 for third or subsequent offenses

Fourth-degree criminal charges (up to 18 months imprisonment and/or $10,000 fine) apply to disqualified individuals who knowingly participate and to organizers/coaches who knowingly allow disqualified persons to participate

Attorney General must conduct and report an audit of background check information to the Governor and Legislature within approximately 3.5 years of enactment