Bill > S2134

This bill establishes a new penalty for possessing an undeclared hypodermic needle or syringe when interacting with law enforcement. Specifically, if someone is lawfully stopped or searched by a law enforcement officer and is found to be in possession of a hypodermic needle or syringe, they commit a disorderly persons offense if they do not inform the officer about the possession *before* any physical contact occurs. A disorderly persons offense is a less serious criminal charge, punishable by up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. This provision aims to address situations where law enforcement officers might be unaware of the presence of such items during an encounter, potentially posing a safety risk.

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https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S2134