Requires Legislature to approve concurrent resolution settlements of over $10 million or more of claims for damages against the State.
Impact
The implementation of S2111 is expected to impose additional procedural steps before claims can be settled, which could lead to delays in resolution for claimants. By transferring the power to approve large settlements to the Legislature, it could deter rapid or unilateral settlement agreements made by executive entities. Supporters argue this would enhance transparency and accountability, allowing elected representatives to weigh the implications of sizable state expenditures. On the other hand, critics argue that this could lead to unnecessary bureaucracy, complicating and prolonging the settlement process for individuals and groups seeking reparations from the state.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 2111 requires that any settlement of claims for damages against the State of New Jersey, amounting to $10 million or more, must receive approval through a concurrent resolution by a majority vote from both Houses of the Legislature. This legislative proposal stipulates that such settlements cannot be executed without prior legislative consent when the claims have followed the notification protocols laid out in the New Jersey Tort Claims Act. The bill aims to enhance legislative oversight over significant financial settlements involving the state, ensuring accountability in fiscal decision-making.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding S2111 include concerns from both sides regarding the balance between legislative oversight and timely justice for claimants. Proponents believe it fosters accountability, while opponents fear it undermines effective governance by adding layers of process that could hinder expedient resolutions. The potential for political motives in legislator decisions regarding financial settlements has also been raised, with concerns that this could politicize what should be straightforward legal agreements in the context of state liability.
Clarifies that punitive damages may not be awarded against public entities or public employees acting within the scope of their employment in any action.
Clarifies that punitive damages may not be awarded against public entities or public employees acting within the scope of their employment in any action.
Bars public entities and public employees from entering into confidential settlements of claims against them; provides that such settlements constitute public records.
Bars public entities and public employees from entering into confidential settlements of claims against them; provides that such settlements constitute public records.
Providing for payment of interest in civil actions for wrongful conviction and directing the attorney general to seek damages for the state from any person who knowingly contributed to the wrongful conviction and prosecute ouster and criminal proceedings as warranted.
Providing for payment of interest in civil actions for wrongful conviction and directing the attorney general to seek damages for the state from any person who knowingly contributed to the wrongful conviction and prosecute ouster and criminal proceedings as warranted.
Requiring persons who file lawsuits for wrongful conviction compensation to prove additional information, changing the compensation rates to daily rates instead of yearly rates and limiting housing assistance offered to such persons.
House Substitute for SB 190 by Committee on Judiciary - Requiring persons who file lawsuits for wrongful conviction compensation to prove additional information, changing the compensation rates to daily rates instead of yearly rates and limiting housing assistance to such persons.