ACLU-NJ Statement on A2378/S3201

The following statement can be attributed to ACLU-NJ Policy Director Sarah Fajardo:

"Though A2378/S3201 has been amended to narrow its scope, the legislation remains dangerously overbroad and ultimately fails to solve the problem it seeks to address. As written, the bill will upgrade all forms of assault on law enforcement officers to a second-degree crime, require blood draw and testing once charged for assault with bodily fluid, and prevents those charged with this crime from applying to a program of supervisory treatment. Overwhelmingly, people engaged in these acts are in severe mental distress, and require treatment, not punishment. The bill's provisions violate fundamental civil rights and perpetuate a tough-on-crime approach that has been proven, time and again, to only exacerbate mass incarceration. To advance racial and social justice, and bolster public safety, New Jersey must prioritize humanity over punishment - we urge lawmakers to oppose A2378/S3201."