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Bill > A4274
NJ A4274
NJ A4274Directs referral of certain persons under 18 for determination of status as socially or economically disadvantaged youth.
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 would provide an affirmative defense to any person under the age of 18 who commits an act of juvenile delinquency which if committed by an adult would be prostitution. The bill is intended to address situations where disadvantaged youth are taken into custody for conduct which stems from the person's background, their environment, lack of support or systemic racism or bias. Under the bill, a person under the age of 18 shall not be considered to commit an act of juvenile delinquency which, under N.J.S.A.2A:4A-23, would be a violation of N.J.S.A.2C:34-1 if committed by an adult but shall be referred by law enforcement to the Department of Children and Family Services for a determination of whether the person is a "socially or economically disadvantaged youth." Under the bill, a "socially or economically disadvantaged youth" means shall mean those persons below 18 years of age from socially disadvantaged or lower income families and whose conduct resulting in the referral likely stemmed from the social or economic disadvantage.
AI Summary
This bill proposes to amend existing law to create an affirmative defense for individuals under 18 who commit acts that would be considered prostitution if committed by an adult, aiming to address situations where such conduct stems from disadvantage. Specifically, law enforcement would be required to refer any person under 18 accused of juvenile delinquency related to prostitution to the Department of Children and Family Services for an assessment to determine if they qualify as a "socially or economically disadvantaged youth," defined as individuals under 18 from disadvantaged or lower-income families whose actions are likely a result of their circumstances. This change is intended to provide a pathway for intervention and support rather than immediate prosecution for these young individuals.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Children, Families and Food Security 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/A4274 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A4500/4274_I1.HTM |
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