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Bill > A4200
NJ A4200
NJ A4200Authorizes VCCO to make payments to dependents of deceased victims in cases of strict liability for drug-induced deaths.
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 amends current law to add the crime of strict liability for drug-induced deaths to the list of crimes for which the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) may order the payment of compensation for personal injury or death. Under the provisions of the bill, the VCCO would be authorized to order the payment of compensation for the benefit of the dependents of the deceased victim. The crime of strict liability for drug-induced deaths provides that any person who manufactures, distributes, or dispenses certain controlled dangerous substances is strictly liable for a death which results from the injection, inhalation or ingestion of that substance, and is guilty of a crime of the first degree. Under the bill's provisions, the payment only would be permitted to be ordered in cases in which a defendant has been charged.
AI Summary
This bill expands the types of crimes for which the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) can provide financial assistance to victims or their dependents, specifically by adding "strict liability for drug-induced deaths" to the list of eligible offenses. Strict liability for drug-induced deaths means that anyone who manufactures, distributes, or dispenses certain controlled substances can be held responsible for a death resulting from the use of that substance, and this is considered a first-degree crime. Under this bill, the VCCO would be authorized to make payments to the dependents of a victim who died as a result of such a drug-induced death, but only if a defendant has been charged with this offense.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness 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/A4200 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A4500/4200_I1.HTM |
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