Bill > A1921

This bill requires the Attorney General to maintain and periodically review guidelines for investigating bias incidents, which are defined as suspected or confirmed violations of specific state law related to bias intimidation. The guidelines must mandate that county and municipal law enforcement agencies report all confirmed or suspected bias incidents through the Electronic Uniform Crime Reporting system within 24 hours, and immediately notify the Attorney General and county prosecutor when the incident involves serious circumstances like homicide, sexual assault, or potential for large-scale public unrest. The guidelines must also establish procedures for initial and follow-up investigations, including specific responsibilities for law enforcement officers at the scene, criteria for confirming a bias incident, and requirements for notifying various state agencies. Additionally, the guidelines must ensure that victims are referred to the Division on Civil Rights when appropriate and mandate training for law enforcement officers on detecting, reporting, investigating, and prosecuting bias incidents. The Attorney General must promptly notify law enforcement leadership of any guideline revisions, and the act takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A1921