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Bill > S4901


NJ S4901

NJ S4901
Requires AG to review Statewide policy regarding investigation of human trafficking.


summary

Introduced
12/01/2025
In Committee
12/01/2025
Crossed Over
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 of New Jersey to review and potentially revise the statewide policy for investigating human trafficking, with a focus on four key areas. First, the Attorney General must evaluate whether audio or video recordings during undercover human trafficking investigations would help protect both the investigation's integrity and the victims' well-being. Second, if recordings are used, the bill mandates the development of strict guidelines for how those recordings can be shared to protect trafficking victims. Third, the bill calls for greater involvement of county prosecutors from the early stages through the conclusion of human trafficking investigations conducted by county or municipal law enforcement, with the goal of addressing legal challenges promptly. Lastly, the Attorney General is given discretion to examine any additional aspects of human trafficking investigations that they deem necessary. The bill stems from a recommendation in a October 2024 report by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation, which focused on human trafficking in the massage and bodywork therapy industry. The legislation is designed to improve investigative practices and provide better protection for trafficking victims, and it will take effect immediately upon enactment.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 12/01/2025)

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