Increases degree of crime for unlawful taking of motor vehicle.

This bill increases penalties for unlawfully taking motor vehicles without the owner's consent in New Jersey. It raises the offense of simply taking a vehicle (without risk) from a fourth-degree crime to a third-degree crime, punishable by 3-5 years in prison or a $15,000 fine. It also elevates the offense of taking a vehicle in a way that risks injury or property damage from a third-degree to a second-degree crime, carrying 5-10 years in prison or a $150,000 fine. The bill directly affects anyone who takes, operates, or rides in a vehicle without consent, including typical "joyriding" cases. These changes adjust the legal classification and penalties without altering the core definition of the offense.