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Bill > S98
NJ S98
NJ S98Authorizes court to impose rescue operation costs of public entity under certain circumstances.
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 authorizes a court to impose the expense of a recovery or rescue operation by a public entity upon a person in violation of certain criminal mischief and motor vehicle operation laws. Specifically, the bill allows a court to assess the value of any services provided and any costs or expenses incurred by a public entity, including but not limited to law enforcement and emergency medical services, arising from or associated with the recovery or rescue of a person, and the person's pet or property if applicable, if the person is guilty of criminal mischief and: (1) reckless driving; (2) careless driving; or (3) driving or operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner. Public entities such as law enforcement and emergency management and medical services are often called upon to aid in the recovery or rescue of persons in dangerous situations. Some of these situations are the result of purposeful, knowing, or heedless disregard for the safety of others and result in damages to, or the endangerment of, a person, animal, or property. This bill would allow public entities to recover rescue operation costs in the event that a person was guilty of criminal mischief (e.g., damaging tangible property of another; tampering with tangible property to endanger a person or property) and the reckless, careless, or unsafe operation of a vehicle (e.g., driving on a frozen body of water).
AI Summary
This bill allows a court to order someone to pay for the costs of a rescue operation conducted by a public entity, such as law enforcement or emergency medical services, if that person is found guilty of both criminal mischief, which involves damaging or tampering with property in a way that endangers others, and also reckless driving, careless driving, or driving a vehicle in an unsafe manner. This means that if someone's actions, like driving dangerously and causing damage, lead to a rescue situation for themselves, their pet, or their property, the government can recover the expenses incurred by these public services.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary 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/S98 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S0500/98_I1.HTM |
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