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Bill > A5303


NJ A5303

NJ A5303
Requires AG to review Statewide policy regarding investigation of human trafficking.


summary

Introduced
02/10/2025
In Committee
03/03/2025
Crossed Over
02/27/2025
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires the Attorney General to review the Statewide policy regarding the investigation of human trafficking. Currently, Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2012-2 sets forth standards and procedures for the investigation of human trafficking. Under the provisions of this bill, upon the review of the policy, the Attorney General is required to consider and address: 1) whether the use of audio or video recording by law enforcement officers conducting undercover investigations of human trafficking would protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure the proper treatment of victims of human trafficking; 2) the implementation of strict policies for dissemination of the audio or video recording, if used, in order to protect victims of human trafficking; 3) the involvement of county prosecutors at the beginning of and throughout human trafficking investigations conducted by county or municipal law enforcement officers in order to address legal challenges as they arise; and 4) any other areas, as determined by the Attorney General. This bill is in response to a recommendation contained in a report issued by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation in October 2024 entitled "An Inquiry into Human Trafficking Activity in the Massage and Bodywork Therapy Industry in New Jersey."

AI Summary

This bill requires the Attorney General to review and potentially revise the statewide policy for investigating human trafficking, which is currently governed by Law Enforcement Directive No. 2012-2. Specifically, the bill directs the Attorney General to examine four key areas: first, whether audio or video recordings during undercover human trafficking investigations would help protect the investigation's integrity and ensure victims are treated appropriately; second, developing strict guidelines for how such recordings would be shared to protect trafficking victims; third, ensuring county prosecutors are involved from the beginning and throughout human trafficking investigations conducted by local law enforcement to help address legal challenges; and fourth, any additional areas the Attorney General deems relevant. The bill stems from a recommendation in a October 2024 report by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation, which examined human trafficking in the state's massage and bodywork therapy industry. The legislation is designed to improve investigative protocols and victim protections in human trafficking cases, with the new requirements taking effect immediately upon enactment.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (15)

Last Action

Received in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 03/03/2025)

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