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NJ SJR81
Joint Resolution
Status
Introduced
2/5/2026
Primary Sponsor
Kristin Corrado
Click for details
AI Summary
- Amends New Jersey Rules of Evidence to create a new hearsay exception (Rule 803(c)(28)) for "fresh complaint" statements in sexual assault or employment discrimination cases
- Fresh complaint statements must be made spontaneously and voluntarily, within a reasonable time after the incident, and to a person the victim would ordinarily turn to for support
- Allows such statements to be admitted for assessing complainant credibility, negating inferences that delayed reporting indicates fabrication, or explaining the investigative process leading to arrest
- Authorizes the New Jersey Supreme Court to adopt the rule immediately after the Governor signs the joint resolution, bypassing the normal Judicial Conference process under P.L.1960, c.52
- Sponsored by Senator Kristin M. Corrado (District 40) and introduced February 5, 2026
Legislative Description
Permits evidence of prompt reports of sexual assault or employment discrimination be admissible as hearsay exception.
Judiciary
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
2/5/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary2/5/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available