Establishes new mitigating factor for defendant who is survivor of abuse.

This bill adds a new mitigating factor to New Jersey's sentencing guidelines for defendants convicted of crimes. Specifically, it allows courts to consider whether a defendant suffered physical, sexual, or emotional abuse that contributed to their criminal behavior. The provision applies directly to individuals whose abusive past was a factor in their offense, requiring judges to weigh this circumstance during sentencing decisions. The bill does not change sentencing ranges but gives judges an additional consideration to potentially reduce penalties for eligible defendants. The bill was introduced to the Assembly Judiciary Committee on January 13, 2026, and remains pending.