This bill amends various sections of New Jersey law to replace the term "inmate" with "incarcerated person," reflecting a shift towards more respectful language regarding individuals in correctional facilities. Key provisions include the requirement for the Commissioner of Corrections to assist incarcerated persons in applying for Medicaid and other public assistance programs at least 30 days prior to their release. The bill also establishes a county reentry coordinator to evaluate the needs of incarcerated individuals and facilitate access to necessary services, aiming to improve their transition back into society. Additionally, it mandates that incarcerated persons receive essential information and support prior to their release, including access to medical records and assistance with obtaining identification.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the rights and treatment of incarcerated individuals by establishing policies for their care, including trauma-informed practices and the provision of hygiene products. It outlines the responsibilities of the Corrections Ombudsperson, ensuring they can investigate complaints and conduct inspections of correctional facilities. The legislation also emphasizes the importance of dignity and respect in the treatment of incarcerated persons, mandating training for correctional officers on these values. Overall, the bill aims to modernize legal language, improve the administration of justice, and support the reintegration of incarcerated individuals into the community.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:84A-21.13, 2C:7-6, 2C:11-3, 2C:43-3.1, 2C:43-3.3, 2C:43-7.2, 2C:43-11, 2C:46-4, 2C:47-10, 26:4-49.8, 26:6B-3, 30:1B-6.2, 30:1B-6.8, 30:1B-6.9, 30:1B-6.10, 30:1B-6.13, 30:1B-6.14, 30:1B-41, 30:4-16.3, 30:4-82.4, 30:4-82.7, 30:4-82.8, 30:4-82.11, 30:4-85.1, 30:4-91.3, 30:4-91.9, 30:4-92.2, 30:4-123.45, 30:4-123.51, 30:4-123.52, 30:4-123.54, 30:4-123.55, 30:4-123.56, 30:4-123.59, 30:4-123.100, 30:4-123.101, 30:4-123.103, 30:7C-3, 30:7C-4, 30:7C-5, 30:7C-6, 30:7C-7, 30:7C-9, 30:7C-10, 30:7E-1, 30:7E-2, 30:7E-3, 30:7E-4, 30:7E-5, 30:7E-7, 30:8-16.14, 30:8-16.16, 30:8-16.17, 30:8-16.18, 30:8-16.19, 30:8-16.20, 30:8-16.21, 30:8-16.22, 30:8-16.2, 30:8-28.4, 30:8-48.1, 30:8-48.2, 30:8-57, 30:8-58, 30:8-59, 30:8-68, 40A:9-117.6, 43:16A-1.5, 43:7-8, 52:4B-44, 52:4B-62, 52:4B-63, 52:4B-64, 52:17B-4.4, 52:18A-19, 52:27B-61, 52:27EE-26, 52:27EE-27, 52:27EE-28, 52:27EE-28.1, 52:27EE-28.2, 52:27EE-28.3, 52:27EE-28.5, 52:27EE-28.6, 52:32-2.3