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Bill > A351
NJ A351
NJ A351Increases penalty for motor vehicle theft if, during course of theft, vehicle is operated in manner creating risk of injury or property damage.
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 grades theft of a motor vehicle as a crime of the first degree if, during the course of the offense, the vehicle is operated in a manner that creates a risk of injury to any person or a risk of damage to property. A first degree crime is punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $200,000, or both. It is the sponsor's view that in instances where, in the course of committing theft of a motor vehicle, the actor exposes innocent persons to injury, or property to damage, sufficiently high penalties are warranted to deter this extremely violent conduct.
AI Summary
This bill increases the penalty for motor vehicle theft by classifying it as a first-degree crime if, during the commission of the theft, the stolen vehicle is driven in a way that endangers people or property. A first-degree crime is a serious offense punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $200,000, or both, and this change aims to deter individuals from engaging in such dangerous conduct when stealing vehicles.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly 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/A351 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A0500/351_I1.HTM |
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