A 598 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Concerns victim's right to rape care advocate under certain circumstances.

This New Jersey bill (A-598) ensures victims of sexual assault have the right to a rape care advocate during medical and legal processes. It requires law enforcement officers and medical providers to immediately notify designated rape crisis centers (county organizations under state contract) whenever a sexual offense is reported. Victims must be informed of their right to have an advocate present and consult with them before and during medical exams, police interviews, and legal proceedings. The bill directly affects all sexual assault victims 12+ in New Jersey, establishing clear notification protocols to support their access to counseling and advocacy.
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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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Gary Schaer
Gary Schaer
DDemocratic
NJ
36