New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3257

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

Impact

The bill is expected to enhance the state's criminal justice framework by potentially reducing recidivism rates. By encouraging compliance, it aims to motivate offenders to adhere to the terms of their sentences, ultimately leading to lower rates of repeat offenses. Additionally, it seeks to streamline the reporting requirements and data collection concerning recidivism, making it easier for authorities to assess the effectiveness of rehabilitation initiatives. The Department of Corrections is required to include information on the impact of these reductions in their annual recidivism reports.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3257 proposes a significant modification to the handling of suspended sentences, probation, and parole in New Jersey by allowing for reductions based on a defendant's compliance with their sentence conditions. Specifically, for each month a defendant remains compliant, they could see a reduction of 30 days off their suspension or probation period. This legislative approach aims to incentivize good behavior and compliance, thereby facilitating quicker reintegration into society for offenders.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes specific disqualifications for certain offenders, particularly those convicted of serious sexual offenses or crimes against minors, who will not be eligible for early discharge under this compliance-based model. This provision has raised discussions among lawmakers and advocates regarding the balance between rehabilitation incentives and public safety. Critics may argue that while the intent is laudable, the exclusions pose a challenge in terms of equitable treatment for all offenders, signaling a potential area for further debate as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

NJ S1078

Same As Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

NJ A788

Carry Over Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

Previously Filed As

NJ A788

Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

NJ S1078

Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

NJ SB485

To Reduce Recidivism; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Suspended Imposition Of A Sentence, Probation, Parole, And Post-release Supervision.

NJ H7311

Provides that imposition of a fine, or sentences of probation or a suspended sentence, absent a period of incarceration, are not convictions.

NJ A2646

Directs the collection of recidivism data for adults sentenced to a period of probation.

NJ SB276

Probation And Parole Sentence

NJ A2858

Concerns eligibility, procedures, and post-program relief for certain drug or alcohol dependent persons sentenced to special probation, or regular probation which as a condition of such requires substance use disorders treatment.

NJ A2238

Concerns eligibility, procedures, and post-program relief for certain drug or alcohol dependent persons sentenced to special probation, or regular probation which as a condition of such requires substance use disorders treatment.

NJ SB838

In sentencing, further providing for order of probation, for conditions of probation and for modification or revocation of order of probation and providing for probation review conference.

NJ HB327

Provides for a contradictory hearing on the discharge of conditions of probation and on the termination of a defendant's suspended sentence or probation (OR NO IMPACT See Note)

Similar Bills

NJ A788

Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

NJ S1078

Provides for reduction in suspended sentence, probation, or parole based on compliance with conditions of sentence; requires report on effect on recidivism.

LA HB83

Authorizes an incarcerated defendant to appear at certain proceedings by way of simultaneous audio-visual transmission (EN DECREASE GF EX See Note)

LA SB532

Provides for the creation of the Veterans Court Program. (8/1/14) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

HI HB997

Relating To Court-ordered Payments.

HI SB1316

Relating To Court-ordered Payments.

AZ SB1262

Probation; felony violation; rearrest

AZ SB1161

Affordable housing; development standards; report