This bill seeks to establish comprehensive guidelines for the investigation and reporting of bias incidents by law enforcement agencies in New Jersey. It requires all county and municipal law enforcement agencies to report confirmed or suspected bias incidents through the Electronic Uniform Crime Reporting system within 24 hours of their initial response. Additionally, agencies must notify the Bias Crime Unit in the Division of Criminal Justice and the relevant county prosecutor immediately if the incident involves serious crimes, a law enforcement officer as the alleged perpetrator, an organized hate group, or has the potential to incite public unrest. The bill also mandates that county prosecutors inform the Division of Criminal Justice promptly when they intend to file accusations related to bias intimidation.

Moreover, the bill outlines specific responsibilities for law enforcement executives, including the development of formal policies, public announcements, and officer training regarding bias incident response. It emphasizes the need for sensitivity and thoroughness in handling such cases and details the criteria for confirming a bias incident. The legislation also mandates collaboration between the Division of Criminal Justice and various law enforcement training bodies to revise curricula related to bias incidents, ensuring that training remains current and effective. This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism and accountability of police forces while improving community relations and fostering a more equitable law enforcement environment.