New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3666

Introduced
3/17/22  
Refer
3/17/22  

Caption

Increases penalties for carjacking and for theft of motor vehicle.

Impact

If enacted, A3666 will significantly impact state laws regarding motor vehicle theft. The revised definitions and grading for carjacking and motor vehicle theft will lead to heavier sentences and a stricter enforcement regime. It is anticipated that these changes will deter potential offenders and reduce the overall rates of carjacking. In addition, the collection of enhanced penalties is intended to support law enforcement activities related to auto theft, thereby reallocating resources toward preventing such crimes.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3666 aims to increase penalties for carjacking and theft of motor vehicles in New Jersey. The bill amends existing laws to classify carjacking as a first-degree crime with severe penalties, including a minimum term of five years of imprisonment without the possibility of parole. This legislation is part of a broader effort to address the increasing incidence of carjacking in the state and to enhance public safety by imposing stricter consequences for such offenses.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill A3666 is supportive among legislators who view it as a necessary measure to combat carjacking, which has been a growing concern for many communities. Advocates for the bill argue it reflects a commitment to maintaining public safety and protecting citizens from violent crime. Conversely, there are concerns regarding the implications of harsher penalties on the prison system and whether such measures will effectively reduce crime rates.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding A3666 include debates about the effectiveness of increased penalties as a deterrent for crime and concerns over potential impacts on the criminal justice system, such as prison overcrowding. Critics of the bill might argue that alternative approaches, such as community programs and focused deterrence strategies, could be more effective than simply increasing incarceration rates.

Companion Bills

NJ S2283

Same As Increases penalties for carjacking and for theft of motor vehicle.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2283

Increases penalties for carjacking and for theft of motor vehicle.

NJ A3499

Authorizes community service as sentence for carjacking; increases penalties for motor vehicle theft.

NJ A4884

Increases penalties for certain motor vehicle theft and carjacking offenses; establishes presumption of pretrial detention in enumerated circumstances.

NJ A1569

Increases penalties for certain motor vehicle theft and carjacking offenses; establishes presumption of pretrial detention in enumerated circumstances.

NJ S3454

Increases penalties for certain motor vehicle theft and carjacking offenses; establishes presumption of pretrial detention in enumerated circumstances.

NJ S1696

Increases penalties for certain motor vehicle theft and carjacking offenses; establishes presumption of pretrial detention in enumerated circumstances.

NJ A4883

Increases penalties for motor vehicle theft; authorizes home detention for minors.

NJ A1568

Increases penalties for motor vehicle theft; authorizes home detention for minors.

NJ S3455

Increases penalties for motor vehicle theft; authorizes home detention for minors.

NJ S1697

Increases penalties for motor vehicle theft; authorizes home detention for minors.

Similar Bills

CA AB2685

Driving privilege: minors.

NJ A1146

Gradually reduces CBT rate.

NJ A1331

Gradually reduces CBT rate.

CA SB237

Electricity: direct transactions.

NJ A1337

Reduces CBT rate; retroactive to January 1, 2020.

NJ A1152

Reduces CBT rate; retroactive to January 1, 2020.

CA AB2301

Alcoholic beverage sales: beer manufacturers: licensed premises.

NJ A2666

Eliminates $375 minimum Corporation Business Tax on New Jersey S corporations with New Jersey gross receipts of less than $100,000.