This bill establishes the crime of reckless discharge of a firearm in New Jersey, categorizing it as either a third-degree or fourth-degree crime based on the circumstances of the discharge. A person commits a third-degree crime if they recklessly discharge a firearm unlawfully or without a lawful purpose within a hundred yards of an occupied structure or educational institutions, including schools and child care facilities. Any other reckless discharge of a firearm is classified as a fourth-degree crime. The penalties for these crimes include imprisonment and fines, with third-degree crimes carrying a potential sentence of three to five years and fines up to $15,000, while fourth-degree crimes can result in up to 18 months of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.

Additionally, the bill specifies that convictions for reckless discharge of a firearm will not merge with other related convictions, allowing for separate sentences to be imposed for each offense. It also mandates that if multiple sentences are given for different offenses, they must run consecutively. This legislative measure aims to enhance public safety by imposing stricter penalties for the reckless use of firearms in proximity to populated areas and educational institutions.