Permits persons participating in Drug Court and other programs to earn credit against amount owed on certain court-imposed financial obligations.
Impact
If enacted, A2135 will amend existing statutes to provide a structured avenue for defendants in drug and alcohol treatment programs to have a more manageable approach to meeting their financial obligations. By linking the ability to reduce these obligations to participation in rehabilitative services, the bill supports the overall goals of rehabilitation over punishment. It aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens on individuals attempting to reintegrate into society following substance use disorders.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2135, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, aims to allow individuals participating in Drug Court and similar programs to earn credits against certain court-imposed financial obligations. The bill specifically addresses those who are required to pay fines resulting from convictions under Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes. It sets forth a framework whereby these individuals can perform reformative services—such as substance abuse treatment, educational programs, and community service—in exchange for a reduction of the financial obligations they owe to the court.
Contention
The bill embodies a recommendation from the Supreme Court Committee on Municipal Court Operations regarding the management of fines and fees imposed on defendants. However, while it promotes rehabilitation, concerns may arise regarding its potential implications for the enforcement of financial penalties. Opponents might argue that reducing financial obligations could undermine deterrence, while proponents believe it will reduce recidivism by fostering rehabilitation rather than punitive measures. Notably, the bill excludes restitution and child support from the potential reduction of obligations, maintaining the necessity of fulfilling those specific financial responsibilities.
Same As
Permits persons participating in Drug Court and other programs to earn credit against amount owed on certain court-imposed financial obligations.
Allows drug- or alcohol-dependent person admitted into court-ordered supervisory treatment program to reduce amount owed on court-ordered fines and certain other financial obligations upon successful completion of program.
Expands municipal court conditional dismissal program to include defendants charged with certain drug offenses; requires defendant's participation in various programs and services; allows dismissal of charges after one-year probationary period.
Expands municipal court conditional dismissal program to include defendants charged with certain drug offenses; requires defendant's participation in various programs and services; allows dismissal of charges after one-year probationary period.
Allows drug- or alcohol-dependent person admitted into court-ordered supervisory treatment program to reduce amount owed on court-ordered fines and certain other financial obligations upon successful completion of program.
"Moose's Law"; prohibits persons convicted of animal cruelty offenses from owning animals and from working or volunteering at animal-related enterprises; establishes presumption against pretrial intervention for certain persons.
"Moose's Law"; prohibits persons convicted of criminal animal cruelty offenses from owning domestic companion animals and from working or volunteering at animal-related enterprises; establishes presumption against pretrial intervention for certain persons.
Provides that defendant who participated in diversion program for certain marijuana offenses on prior occasion may again participate under certain circumstances.
Provides that defendant who participated in diversion program for certain marijuana offenses on prior occasion may again participate under certain circumstances.