Bill > A5405

Introduced Session

This bill amends the definition of a "weapon" to remove "slingshots" and decriminalizes the possession or manufacture of a slingshot in New Jersey. Under current law, a "slingshot" is defined as a weapon. Additionally, two sections of law provide that possession of a slingshot is a crime of the fourth degree, unless the person has an explainable, lawful purpose for carrying the weapon. Another section of law provides that manufacture of a slingshot can be a fourth degree crime. Fourth degree crimes are punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 18 months, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. Shooting slingshots has long been a traditional and peaceable sporting activity, and one in which children often engage. Consequently, this bill amends the definition of "weapon" to remove slingshots. This change ensures that the burden to prove lawful conduct will no longer rest on a person who simply possesses a slingshot. The bill further provides that the manufacture of slingshots will no longer be considered a fourth degree crime. It should be noted that the definition of "weapon" in New Jersey is broad enough to include the misuse of any instrument "readily capable of lethal use or of inflicting serious bodily injury." The provisions of this bill do not amend that language. Accordingly, a slingshot can still be considered a "weapon" if it is ever used as a weapon.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Kevin Rooney (R)*,  Parker Space (R)*,  Harold Wirths (R)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee (on 05/08/2023)

Official Document