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Bill > SJR32
NJ SJR32
NJ SJR32Permits evidence of prompt reports of sexual assault or employment discrimination be admissible as hearsay exception.
summary
Introduced
01/09/2024
01/09/2024
In Committee
01/09/2024
01/09/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This Joint Resolution amends the Rules of Evidence to permit the jury to consider a statement by a declarant as it relates to sexual assault or employment discrimination in certain cases. The resolution permits statements by the declarant relating to sexual assault or employment discrimination when: (i) the complaint was made spontaneously and voluntarily, (ii) within a reasonable amount of time after the crime had occurred, and (iii) to a person the victim ordinarily would turn to for support. The resolution permits admission of declarant's statement for the purposes of assessing the credibility of the complainant with respect to the commission of the offense; to negate the inference that the victim's initial delay or silence means the complaint was fabricated; or when relevant, and to the extent necessary, to explain the investigative process and complete the narrative of events leading to the defendant's arrest.
AI Summary
This joint resolution amends the Rules of Evidence to allow for the admission of "fresh complaint" evidence in cases of sexual assault or employment discrimination, meaning statements made by a victim shortly after the incident to someone they would typically confide in can be considered by a jury. This evidence is admissible not to prove that the assault or discrimination actually happened, but rather to help assess the victim's credibility, to counter the idea that a delay in reporting means the claim is false, and to provide context for the investigation leading to an arrest. The resolution outlines specific conditions for admitting such statements, requiring them to be spontaneous, voluntary, made within a reasonable time, and to a trusted individual.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 01/09/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SJR32 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/SJR/32_I1.HTM |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/SJR/32_I1.HTM |
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