This bill amends New Jersey statutes concerning felony murder, aggravated manslaughter, and aggravated assault to include provisions specifically addressing auto theft. It adds "theft of a motor vehicle" to the list of crimes that can lead to felony murder charges if a death occurs during the commission of the crime or while fleeing from it. The bill establishes strict liability for causing death or injury while fleeing from law enforcement or operating a vehicle in violation of certain statutes, meaning individuals can be held accountable regardless of the actual cause of the death or injury. Additionally, it modifies the definitions of aggravated manslaughter and aggravated assault to include deaths and injuries occurring during auto theft and vehicle operation violations.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that defendants can still be held liable for aggravated manslaughter and aggravated assault even if the injury or death was caused by a pursuing police officer, reinforcing the legal precedent set in State v. Lora. The penalties for these offenses remain severe, with first-degree crimes carrying a potential prison term of 10 to 20 years, and murder resulting in a minimum sentence of 30 years without parole. Overall, these changes aim to enhance accountability for violent actions associated with auto theft and improve public safety in New Jersey.