Establishes New Jersey Forensic Science Planning Commission.

S 4489 establishes a 23-member New Jersey Forensic Science Planning Commission to develop recommendations for a permanent statewide Forensic Science Commission. The commission includes representatives from crime labs, courts, law enforcement, defense attorneys, wrongful conviction advocates, academic experts, and forensic science professionals. It must study forensic science operations across the state - including lab accreditation, staffing, and funding - and propose a permanent commission’s structure, oversight duties, funding needs, and operational procedures within 22 months. The planning commission will gather public input and submit final recommendations to the Governor and Legislature after a 30-day public comment period. This bill directly affects forensic science providers, courts, law enforcement, and advocacy groups by setting a framework for improved oversight of forensic evidence handling.