A 3137 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Provides that unlawful use, manufacture, or distribution of controlled dangerous substance by parent or caregiver in presence of child constitutes crime of endangering welfare of child.

This proposed bill (A-3137) would amend New Jersey law to make it a crime for a parent or caregiver to unlawfully use, manufacture, or distribute illegal drugs in the presence of a child. It directly affects parents and caregivers who engage in drug-related activities around minors. The key provision adds specific language to the endangering welfare statute, classifying such drug activity in front of a child as a criminal offense (third degree for caregivers, fourth degree for others), separate from standard drug violations. The bill is currently pending before the Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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1
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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