This bill seeks to abolish the position of constable in New Jersey, following recommendations from the State Commission of Investigation (SCI). It eliminates all functions, powers, and duties associated with constables, removing statutory references to them throughout various laws. The bill also repeals multiple sections of existing law that pertain to constables, transferring their responsibilities primarily to sheriffs and other law enforcement officers. Additionally, it ensures that any municipal employment contracts for constables that were established prior to the bill's effective date will remain valid for salary purposes until they expire, although any powers or duties associated with the constable position will be nullified.

The legislation includes specific amendments to existing statutes, such as modifying provisions related to property distress and appraisals to involve sworn appraisers and sheriffs instead of constables. It also clarifies the roles of law enforcement officers in legal processes, including making arrests and executing warrants, while removing any mention of constables from these procedures. The bill aims to streamline law enforcement responsibilities and terminology, focusing on police officers and sheriffs, and is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:3-11.18, 4:8B-7, 17:13-112, 19:32-45, 24:6D-3, 30:9-12.11, 40A:14-152, 51:1132