The bill establishes a one-year pilot program called the Pretrial Partnership for Community Support and Services Pilot Program in Monmouth and Union Counties, aimed at providing support and services to eligible defendants prior to trial. It mandates that courts make pretrial release decisions within 48 hours of a defendant's commitment to jail and outlines various conditions for release, including personal recognizance and non-monetary conditions. The program will facilitate biopsychosocial assessments and treatment services through an approved pretrial community support provider, which will develop individualized plans for defendants. The bill also introduces a commission to oversee the program, consisting of five members appointed by the Governor, responsible for monitoring its effectiveness and approving the support provider.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding pretrial risk assessments, ensuring that they are based on objective criteria and do not consider certain marijuana-related offenses. It emphasizes non-discriminatory practices in recommendations for release and allows courts to factor in a defendant's successful completion of the program when making charging decisions and sentencing recommendations. Notably, the bill specifies that no state funds will be allocated to the support provider for the pilot program, and the Administrative Office of the Courts is authorized to implement necessary guidance for the program's rollout. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance support for defendants while balancing community safety and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:162-17, 2A:162-20, 2A:162-25