This bill amends New Jersey's assault laws to enhance penalties for crimes against individuals with disabilities. Specifically, it introduces a new provision that classifies causing bodily injury to a person with a disability as a crime of the third degree. Additionally, it mandates a minimum prison sentence of three years for offenders convicted under this provision. The bill defines a "person with a disability" as someone who, due to a pre-existing medically determinable physical or mental impairment, is significantly limited in their ability to resist harm, including those recognized as disabled under federal criteria.

The legislation was inspired by a tragic incident involving Joey Damiano, a man with an intellectual disability who was violently assaulted in 2006. By upgrading the legal consequences for assaults on disabled individuals, the bill aims to provide greater protection and justice for vulnerable members of the community. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.