S 576 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Increases mandatory minimum term of imprisonment for certain repeat sex offenders.

This bill increases mandatory minimum prison sentences for repeat sex offenders in New Jersey. It requires second or subsequent convictions for offenses like sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, or lewdness involving minors to receive at least 85% of the maximum sentence for that offense (e.g., 85% of 20 years for aggravated sexual assault), with no parole eligibility during that period. Courts may reduce sentences only if the defendant pleads guilty to a victim-centered plea agreement or if a "serious injustice" finding overrides deterrence needs, requiring specific court justification. The Attorney General must create uniform guidelines for prosecutors handling these cases, and prosecutors gain a 10-day window to appeal reduced sentences.
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 in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Jim Beach
Jim Beach
DDemocratic
NJ
6