Bill > A2776

This bill mandates that the Attorney General revise the existing policy for law enforcement officers' use of force, which has not been updated since 2001, to include specific requirements, factors, standards, and reforms aimed at ensuring force is used judiciously and with respect for human rights, dignity, and life. Key provisions of the revised policy will require officers to prioritize de-escalation techniques and alternatives to force when possible, use only force that is reasonably believed to be proportional to the situation, report potential excessive force by other officers, and adhere to clear guidelines on drawing or pointing firearms and discharging them, considering risks to bystanders. The policy will also establish procedures for handling citizen complaints about use of force, require officers to intercede when witnessing unnecessary force, and provide comprehensive guidelines for approved force methods, deadly force, and fair and unbiased conduct. Furthermore, it will mandate prompt medical assistance for injured individuals, set training standards for understanding the use of force policy, include guidelines for interacting with vulnerable populations, outline factors for reviewing use of force incidents, specify minimum training requirements, and require regular policy updates, with the revised policy to be published within seven months of the bill's enactment.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A2776