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
On June 5, 2020, the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General issued notice that it will ban police departments from using chokeholds, carotid artery neck restraints, or similar tactics, except where deadly force is necessary. The revision clarifies and tightens longstanding policy on the use of this kind of force by law enforcement. This bill establishes the crime of strangulation chokehold, applicable to various law enforcement personnel. Under the bill, enumerated law enforcement personnel commit strangulation chokehold when, with intent to impede the normal breathing or circulation of the blood of another person he blocks the nose or mouth, or uses any procedure known as a chokehold, which results in serious bodily injury or death. Strangulation chokehold is classified as a crime of the first degree, ordinarily punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $200,000, or both. Under the bill, "chokehold" includes but is not limited to, any pressure of the throat or windpipe which may prevent or hinder breathing or reduce intake of air.
AI Summary
This bill establishes the crime of strangulation chokehold, making it a first-degree crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $200,000 fine for enumerated law enforcement personnel, including municipal, county, and state officers, corrections employees, and probation officers, when they intentionally block a person's nose or mouth or use a chokehold—defined as any pressure on the throat or windpipe that hinders breathing or reduces air intake—resulting in serious bodily injury or death. This legislation follows a June 2020 notice from the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General that banned police departments from using chokeholds and similar neck restraints except when deadly force is necessary, aiming to clarify and strengthen existing policies on the use of such force.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
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/S3068 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3500/3068_I1.HTM |
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