New Jersey Assembly Bill AR13

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Urges New Jersey Supreme Court to refer to supervisory treatment program as "Recovery Court" in publications.

Impact

If adopted, this resolution would shift the language used in official judicial publications, promoting a more comprehensive view of the treatment programs aimed at fostering recovery rather than solely focusing on drug abuse. By encouraging the use of 'Recovery Court,' the resolution aims to enhance the representation of the program's goals, which include rehabilitation and recovery from addiction. This change may also contribute to a more positive perception of individuals participating in these programs, emphasizing their journey towards recovery rather than labeling them by their past substance use issues.

Summary

Assembly Resolution AR13 urges the New Jersey Supreme Court to use the term 'Recovery Court' in its publications instead of the commonly used term 'drug court.' This resolution highlights the intention to promote a broader understanding of the treatment program established under N.J.S.A.2C:35-14, which serves as a treatment-based alternative to incarceration for nonviolent drug or alcohol dependent individuals. The current terminology emphasizes drug abuse while neglecting other substances, including alcohol, and fails to underscore the recovery aspect of the program, leading to concerns about the implications of language used in judicial contexts.

Contention

The resolution acknowledges that the popular term 'drug court' might carry negative connotations and could mislead the public about the nature of the treatment provided. There are discussions around the importance of changes in language and how these changes can influence public perception and the treatment of individuals within the justice system. Opponents or skeptics of the resolution might argue over the practicality and efficiency of making such a change, questioning if a shift in terminology will have significant impacts on the underlying judicial and rehabilitation processes.