A 341 New Jersey General Assembly · 2024-2025 Regular Session

Requires temporary detention and notification to parent or guardian of underage person who unlawfully purchases or possesses alcoholic beverages or cannabis.

This bill requires law enforcement officers to temporarily detain underage individuals (under 18) who unlawfully purchase or possess alcohol or cannabis, and notify their parents or guardians. For first-time violations, officers must provide a written warning to the minor and notify parents; for second violations, officers must provide a written warning and notify parents; for third or subsequent violations, officers must notify parents and provide referrals to community services. The bill prohibits arrest for these violations (except for other violations), requires officers to seize alcohol or cannabis items for destruction or training use, and mandates confidential record keeping with destruction after two years or upon the minor's 21st birthday, whichever comes first. It aims to address underage alcohol and cannabis use through a graduated response system focused on parental involvement and community resources rather than punitive measures.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 9, 2024 Last action Jan 9, 2024
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Jan 9, 2024
Introduced
Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
lower
2 primary · 4 co-sponsors

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