This bill establishes a separate crime of residential burglary in New Jersey, amending N.J.S.2C:18-1 to include a specific definition of "residential dwelling." The new definition encompasses any building or structure primarily serving as a residence, including movable or temporary structures, as well as places adapted for overnight accommodation. The bill also clarifies that the existing definition of "structure" is modified by removing the previous reference to places adapted for overnight accommodation.
Under the new legislation, a person commits residential burglary if they enter or remain in a residential dwelling with the intent to commit an offense. The penalties for this crime are consistent with current law, categorizing it as a third-degree crime, except in certain circumstances that elevate it to a second-degree crime, such as inflicting bodily injury or being armed with a weapon during the act. The bill aims to facilitate the tracking of residential burglary incidents in the state while maintaining the existing penalties associated with such crimes.