summary
Introduced
02/19/2026
02/19/2026
In Committee
02/19/2026
02/19/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill creates a three-year Gun Court Pilot Program in the Superior Court in Mercer County. Under the provisions of the bill, the Administrative Office of the Courts would administer the program. Any criminal case where a gun or other dangerous weapon was used in the commission of the crime could be referred to the Gun Court. Judges assigned to the Gun Court are to have extensive knowledge of and experience in criminal law, criminal procedure, and criminal sentencing. The Administrative Office of the Courts is to monitor the Gun Court and report to the Legislature 12 months after the organization of the pilot program and within six months after its expiration. The reports are to include the impact of the pilot program on criminal sentencing and the court's calendar and workload. The report also would evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot program and recommend whether the program should be continued or expanded.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a three-year "Gun Court Pilot Program" in Mercer County's Superior Court, overseen by the Administrative Office of the Courts, which is the state's judicial branch administrative body. This specialized court will handle criminal cases where a gun or other dangerous weapon was used during the commission of a crime, aiming for quicker resolutions and utilizing judges with significant experience in criminal law, procedure, and sentencing, especially concerning violent offenses. The Administrative Office of the Courts will monitor the program's progress, reporting to the Legislature on its impact on sentencing, court efficiency, and overall effectiveness, and will recommend whether the program should continue or be expanded statewide. The bill also allows the Supreme Court of New Jersey to create necessary court rules and specifies that the program will begin on the first day of the third month after the bill becomes law and will end three years later.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 02/19/2026)
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/S3542 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S4000/3542_I1.HTM |
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