This bill amends New Jersey's assault laws to enhance penalties for assaults against individuals with disabilities. Specifically, it introduces a new provision that makes it a crime of the third degree to cause bodily injury to a person with a disability, defined as someone who has a pre-existing medically determinable physical or mental impairment that significantly limits their ability to resist. Additionally, individuals convicted under this provision will face a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years, during which they will be ineligible for parole.

The legislation was inspired by a tragic incident involving Joey Damiano, a man with an intellectual disability who was brutally assaulted in 2006. The bill aims to provide greater protection for vulnerable individuals and ensure that those who commit violent acts against them face more severe consequences. The changes reflect a commitment to addressing violence against people with disabilities and enhancing their safety within the community.