Bill
Bill > S2898
NJ S2898
NJ S2898Upgrades simple assault to aggravated assault if committed against crossing guard or parking enforcement officer.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill upgrades the crime of simple assault to aggravated assault if the victim is a crossing guard or parking enforcement officer who is in uniform or engaged in official duties, or when the assault is due to the person's status as a crossing guard or parking enforcement officer. Currently, N.J.S.2C:12-1 establishes increased criminal penalties when certain victims - including law enforcement officers, school employees, and health care workers - are assaulted while performing official duties or because of their job status. This bill extends that protection to crossing guards and parking enforcement officers. Aggravated assault under paragraph (5) of subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:12-1 is a crime of the third degree if the victim suffers bodily injury; otherwise it is a crime of the fourth degree. A crime of the third degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of three to five years; a fine of up to $15,000, or both. A crime of the fourth degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment for not more than 18 months, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
AI Summary
This bill amends existing New Jersey law to elevate the offense of simple assault to aggravated assault when the victim is a crossing guard or parking enforcement officer, provided they are in uniform, performing their official duties, or the assault is motivated by their job status. Currently, New Jersey law (N.J.S.2C:12-1) already increases penalties for assaulting certain public servants, such as law enforcement officers and school employees, under similar circumstances. This legislation extends that enhanced protection to crossing guards and parking enforcement officers. Aggravated assault under this provision is classified as a third-degree crime if the victim sustains bodily injury, and a fourth-degree crime if no bodily injury occurs; a third-degree crime carries a potential prison sentence of three to five years and a fine of up to $15,000, while a fourth-degree crime has a maximum sentence of 18 months and a fine of up to $10,000.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/S2898 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3000/2898_I1.HTM |
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