S 4207 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Clarifies protections and remedies under New Jersey Civil Rights Act; establishes certain aggravating factors regarding award of punitive damages.

This bill amends New Jersey's Civil Rights Act to clarify protections for individuals whose constitutional rights are violated by private persons or government officials. It allows the Attorney General to sue on behalf of victims to recover damages and obtain relief, while also enabling those individuals to file their own civil lawsuits in Superior Court with the option of a jury trial. The legislation establishes specific aggravating factors that courts may consider when deciding whether to award punitive damages in cases involving these rights violations. By updating the state's legal framework, the bill aims to strengthen remedies available to citizens without relying solely on federal law limitations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced May 11, 2026 Last action May 11, 2026
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May 11, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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