This bill revises the legal framework surrounding the justified use of force and deadly force in New Jersey. It establishes that individuals are 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 the imminent commission of certain serious crimes, including those listed in the Three Strikes law. Importantly, individuals using or threatening deadly force are also not required to retreat and have the right to stand their ground if they are not committing a crime and are in a lawful location.

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. This repeal indicates a significant shift in the legal approach to self-defense, aiming to provide clearer guidelines on when individuals can justifiably use force in various situations. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after its enactment.