The bill amends New Jersey's implied consent law to include blood testing for alcohol and specific controlled substances, particularly marijuana. It establishes a per se standard for driving under the influence of marijuana, defining impairment as having three nanograms or more of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per milliliter of blood. Additionally, it specifies that individuals will be considered under the influence if their blood contains any amount of a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance or any amount of a Schedule II or III controlled dangerous substance that has not been medically prescribed.

Moreover, the legislation maintains current penalties for alcohol-related offenses while introducing new penalties for drug-related offenses, including the forfeiture of the right to operate a vehicle for those convicted of driving under the influence of narcotics or hallucinogenic drugs. The bill emphasizes the importance of chemical testing and ensures that individuals are informed of their rights and the consequences of refusing to submit to testing. Overall, this legislative change aims to enhance road safety by broadening the scope of substances for which drivers can be held accountable.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-50.2