This bill amends New Jersey law to grant full police status to special agents in the Department of Treasury, allowing them to carry firearms at all times. It modifies existing legislation to include special agents among those with full police powers for law enforcement, requiring them to complete a basic training course approved by the Police Training Commission. The bill also designates these special agents as peace officers, enabling them to arrest individuals violating state tax laws and to seize contraband, thereby enhancing their enforcement capabilities.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that special agents of the Division of Taxation are exempt from certain firearm restrictions, allowing continuous carry of firearms as long as they comply with regulations set by the Director of the Division of Taxation. This change expands their authority to include the seizure of contraband related to tax laws, such as counterfeit stamps, impression devices, and cigarettes. The bill aims to strengthen the Department of the Treasury's ability to combat tax-related offenses effectively and is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:154-4, 54:40A-22