New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2636

Introduced
5/16/22  

Caption

Enhances self-defense protections.

Impact

The implications of S2636 are broad, effectively simplifying the legal framework surrounding self-defense in New Jersey. This bill also seeks to remove the prerequisites for obtaining various firearms-related permits, such as the firearms purchaser identification card required for buying long guns and ammunition and the permit necessary to purchase a handgun. It also promotes the use of non-lethal defensive tools like stun guns and permits the use of substances like pepper spray without previous restrictions. By eliminating these hurdles, the bill may increase overall firearm accessibility for residents.

Summary

Senate Bill S2636 enhances self-defense protections for New Jersey residents by introducing significant changes to existing laws governing the use of force. The bill asserts that individuals no longer bear a 'duty to retreat' when faced with an attack that poses a threat of death or serious bodily harm. Previously, the law required individuals to seek safety if possible; however, under this bill, individuals can use deadly force without needing to retreat regardless of their location. This change is positioned to empower citizens in self-defense situations, aligning with a more robust interpretation of personal security rights.

Contention

Notwithstanding the supportive views on enhanced self-defense rights, S2636 has drawn criticism from various quarters. Opponents argue that the removal of the duty to retreat could escalate violent confrontations and lead to increased misuse of deadly force as individuals may feel encouraged to act impulsively during confrontations. Other concerns center around the potential for looser regulations on firearms and the implications for public safety. Opponents believe that these changes could complicate law enforcement's ability to respond effectively to such incidents, posing risks to community safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A2387

Establishes "Court Security Enhancement Fund" and increases court fees.

NJ SB164

Enact the Suicide Self-Defense Act

NJ A5280

Restores Department of Public Advocate as principal department in Executive Branch.

NJ S124

Enhancing child welfare protections

NJ H165

Enhancing child welfare protections

NJ S148

Enhancing child welfare protections

NJ H262

Enhancing child welfare protections

NJ S2804

Enhancing child welfare protections

NJ S2423

Renames Juvenile Justice Commission as Youth Justice Commission.

NJ A3678

Renames Juvenile Justice Commission as Youth Justice Commission.

Similar Bills

NJ S1517

Authorizes issuance of protective orders for certain victimized persons in situations for which domestic violence statutes do not apply due to lack of familial or dating relationship between victim and offending actor.

NJ A1334

Revises certain laws concerning domestic violence and firearms.

NJ A2773

Revises certain laws concerning domestic violence and firearms.

NJ A2770

Authorizes issuance of protective orders for certain victimized persons in situations for which domestic violence statutes do not apply due to lack of familial or dating relationship between victim and offending actor.

NJ A3173

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.

NJ A5174

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.

NJ S3611

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.

NJ S2750

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.