This bill amends current pretrial detention laws in New Jersey to allow courts additional time to determine pretrial release or detention for defendants charged with crimes involving firearms. Specifically, it modifies the requirement that courts make a pretrial release decision within 48 hours of a defendant's commitment to jail, allowing for an extension in cases where the offense involves the use or possession of a firearm. The additional time granted is limited to what is reasonably necessary for conducting a firearms analysis and presenting the findings to the court.

The bill also includes new legal language that emphasizes the court's ability to take this additional time while maintaining the overall framework for pretrial release decisions. It aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that thorough assessments are conducted in firearm-related cases before determining a defendant's release status. This legislation is in response to recommendations from the New Jersey State Commission of Investigations regarding illegal firearms use and trends in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:162-16, 2A:162-17