Establishes "County Government Criminal Justice Reform Administration Fund"; increases certain fees and assessments.
Impact
The legislation states that the funds derived from these increases will be used for various costs, including salaries, health benefits, court security enhancements, and operational expenses necessary for the effective implementation of criminal justice reforms. By centralizing these funds in a dedicated account, the bill ensures that local governments have a reliable financial resource to rely upon as they implement new policies regarding pretrial release and detention, as well as other aspects of criminal justice reform.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3286 aims to establish the "County Government Criminal Justice Reform Administration Fund," which seeks to provide continuous funding for county governments to implement criminal justice reform as outlined in existing state law. The bill proposes increases to certain court fees, assessments, and other costs associated with criminal proceedings to generate revenue for this fund. It indicates a recognition of the financial burdens that criminal justice reform places on county resources and aims to create a sustainable solution for funding these initiatives.
Contention
Discussions surrounding A3286 could focus on the fairness of imposing additional fees on court users, especially given the economic burden it may place on individuals seeking justice. Additionally, the need for a waiver option for these increased fees based on poverty may generate debate about accessibility to justice and whether the proposed funding model adequately addresses the financial realities of all citizens. Critics may argue that relying on increased court costs could disproportionately affect low-income individuals who often bear the brunt of financial assessments in the legal system.
Appropriates $87,783,515 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and various Green Acres funds to DEP for local government open space acquisition and park development projects, and for certain administrative expenses.
Allows for the establishment of a "County Tenant Legal Assistance Program" in each county; requires portion of the administrative fee for residential mortgage execution sales fund the program.
Creates new $100 assessment for convictions of certain sexual offenses to fund counseling for victims and their families; establishes Sexual Offender Victim Counseling Fund.