This bill revises the legal framework surrounding the justified use of force and deadly force in New Jersey. It establishes that a person is justified in using or threatening to use non-deadly force when they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend themselves or others against imminent unlawful force, without a duty to retreat. Additionally, the bill clarifies that deadly force is justified if a person reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury, or to prevent certain serious crimes as defined in the Three Strikes law. Importantly, individuals using or threatening deadly force are also not required to retreat and can stand their ground if they are not committing a crime and are in a place where they have a right to be.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing statutes related to the use of force and deadly force, specifically N.J.S.2C:3-4 through N.J.S.2C:3-7, thereby updating the legal standards in this area. The definition of serious bodily injury is also included, specifying it as an injury that poses a substantial risk of death or results in serious, permanent disfigurement or loss of function of any bodily member or organ. The act is set to take effect 90 days after its enactment.