The bill amends New Jersey law to permit individuals aged 18 and older to possess bear spray for the purpose of repelling aggressive bears during outdoor activities like hiking or biking. It introduces new legal language that allows for the possession of bear deterrent products approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which must contain a minimum of 7.6 ounces of chemical substance. This change significantly alters existing regulations that previously limited personal defense sprays, such as pepper spray, to three-quarters of an ounce, effectively prohibiting bear spray under current law.

Furthermore, the bill provides legal immunity for individuals using bear spray in self-defense against aggressive bears, as long as the use is deemed necessary and not the result of willful or grossly negligent actions. It also emphasizes compliance with relevant legal provisions regarding the use of chemical substances. Violations of the bill's stipulations could lead to criminal charges, specifically classifying the misuse of bear spray contrary to the law as a fourth-degree crime.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:62A-20