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Bill > A2530

NJ A2530

NJ A2530
Creates a civil cause of action for stalking.

summary

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

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill creates a civil cause of action for victims of stalking, a crime set out in P.L.1992, c.209 (C.2C:12-10). Under the bill, a "victim" is defined as "a person who, as a result of the conduct of the defendant that is prohibited under P.L.1992, c.209 (C.2C:12-10), was placed in reasonable fear for his own personal safety or for the safety of a minor child of whom the person is a parent or legal guardian." The bill provides that the victim could bring suit whether or not the individual has been charged with or convicted of the crime. The victim could be awarded damages and costs, including attorney fees, and may also be awarded punitive damages. Under the bill, no action could be commenced beyond the applicable personal injury statute of limitations. Under N.J.S.2A:14-2 the statute of limitations for personal injury actions is two years.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a new legal pathway for victims of stalking to seek justice in civil court, meaning they can sue the perpetrator directly for damages, even if criminal charges haven't been filed or a conviction hasn't occurred. Stalking is defined by a previous law, P.L.1992, c.209 (C.2C:12-10), and a "victim" is someone who, due to the stalker's actions, reasonably feared for their own safety or the safety of a minor child under their care. If a victim wins a civil case, they can be awarded compensation for their losses, including attorney fees and court costs, and potentially punitive damages, which are intended to punish the wrongdoer. However, these lawsuits must be filed within the standard time limit for personal injury cases, which is generally two years from the most recent stalking incident.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee (on 01/13/2026)
(1 Companion Bills)

bill text

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bill summary

Document Type Source Location
State Bill Page https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A2530
BillText https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A3000/2530_I1.HTM
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