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Bill > S1960


NJ S1960

NJ S1960
Creates offense of making false child abuse report; permits assessment of penalty.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill makes it a crime of the third degree to knowingly or willfully make a false report of child abuse. A crime of the third degree is ordinarily punishable by a term of imprisonment of three to five years, a fine of up to $15,000, or both. Also, the bill permits the assessment of an additional civil penalty of up to $10,000, payable to the State Treasurer for use by the Department of Children and Families.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a new crime of the third degree for anyone who knowingly or willfully makes a false report of child abuse or neglect, which is a serious offense typically punishable by three to five years in prison, a fine of up to $15,000, or both. In addition to criminal penalties, the bill also allows for a civil penalty of up to $10,000 to be assessed against individuals convicted of this offense, with these funds going to the State Treasurer for the use of the Department of Children and Families, an agency responsible for child welfare.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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