Bill
Bill > SJR81
NJ SJR81
NJ SJR81Permits evidence of prompt reports of sexual assault or employment discrimination be admissible as hearsay exception.
summary
Introduced
02/05/2026
02/05/2026
In Committee
02/05/2026
02/05/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This Joint Resolution amends the Rules of Evidence to permit the jury to consider a statement by a declarant as it relates to sexual assault or employment discrimination in certain cases. The resolution permits statements by the declarant relating to sexual assault or employment discrimination when: (i) the complaint was made spontaneously and voluntarily, (ii) within a reasonable amount of time after the crime had occurred, and (iii) to a person the victim ordinarily would turn to for support. The resolution permits admission of declarant's statement for the purposes of assessing the credibility of the complainant with respect to the commission of the offense; to negate the inference that the victim's initial delay or silence means the complaint was fabricated; or when relevant, and to the extent necessary, to explain the investigative process and complete the narrative of events leading to the defendant's arrest.
AI Summary
This joint resolution amends the Rules of Evidence to allow for the admission of "fresh complaint" evidence in cases of sexual assault or employment discrimination, meaning that statements made by a victim about such incidents can be considered by a jury. Specifically, these statements are admissible if they were made spontaneously and voluntarily, within a reasonable time after the incident, and to someone the victim would typically seek support from. The purpose of admitting this evidence is to help assess the credibility of the complainant, to counter the idea that a delay in reporting means the complaint is false, and to explain the investigative process leading to an arrest.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 02/05/2026)
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/SJR81 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/SJR/81_I1.HTM |
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