Clarifies that school bus for purpose of upgraded penalties in "school zone" criminal drug laws includes any bus owned and operated by board of education or by private contractor.
Impact
The implications of S2706 are significant as it will enhance the legal framework surrounding drug-related offenses in proximity to schools. By defining school buses clearly, the legislation aims to ensure that individuals found distributing or possessing controlled substances within the vicinity of a school or on a school bus face stricter penalties. This move is part of a broader initiative to bolster drug laws and deter illegal drug activities around educational institutions, thereby promoting a safer environment for students.
Summary
Senate Bill S2706, introduced by Senator Shirley K. Turner, aims to clarify the definition of a 'school bus' within the context of upgraded penalties in 'school zone' criminal drug laws. The bill amends existing statutes to explicitly state that a school bus includes any vehicle owned and operated by a board of education or any private contractor for transporting students to and from school or school-related functions, such as field trips and athletic events. This clarification is especially relevant given incidents highlighting concerns over drug use among school transportation providers.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding S2706 include concerns about the adequacy of penalties and the potential impact on individuals caught in circumstances involving minor drug-related offenses. Critics may argue that the legislation could disproportionately affect individuals who engage in non-violent drug offenses, advocating for a more rehabilitative approach rather than punitive measures. There may also be discussions on the adequacy of resources and support for schools and communities in addressing the underlying issues of drug use, beyond merely imposing stricter legal penalties.
Carry Over
Clarifies that school bus for purpose of upgraded penalties in "school zone" criminal drug laws includes any bus owned and operated by board of education or by private contractor.
Clarifies that school bus for purpose of upgraded penalties in "school zone" criminal drug laws includes any bus owned and operated by board of education or by private contractor.
Upgrades certain penalties for criminal street gang recruitment and criminality; imposes mandatory minimum sentence for certain offenses; establishes accomplice liability and imposes restrictions for certain recruiters.
Upgrades certain penalties for criminal street gang recruitment and criminality; imposes mandatory minimum sentence for certain offenses; establishes accomplice liability and imposes restrictions for certain recruiters.
Upgrades certain penalties for criminal street gang recruitment and criminality; imposes mandatory minimum sentence for certain offenses; establishes accomplice liability and imposes restrictions for certain recruiters.
Upgrades certain penalties for criminal street gang recruitment and criminality; imposes mandatory minimum sentence for certain offenses; establishes accomplice liability and imposes restrictions for certain recruiters.
Upgrades penalties for certain crimes involving heroin and fentanyl; establishes new crimes concerning heroin mixtures; allows certain defendants to be eligible for drug court.
Upgrades penalties for certain crimes involving heroin and fentanyl; establishes new crimes concerning heroin mixtures; allows certain defendants to be eligible for drug court.
Clarifies that school bus for purpose of upgraded penalties in "school zone" criminal drug laws includes any bus owned and operated by board of education or by private contractor.
Clarifies that unlawful gifting of marijuana or cannabis is prohibited under "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."
A bill for an act relating to marijuana, including the manufacture, delivery, and possession of marijuana and the licensure of retail marijuana, providing fees, including excise taxes, establishing funds, and including penalties.
Implements recommendations of New Jersey Criminal Sentencing and Disposition Commission to remove mandatory minimum sentences for certain non-violent drug crimes.
Clarifies that unlawful gifting of marijuana or cannabis is prohibited under "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."