The bill establishes the crime of "strangulation chokehold," specifically targeting various law enforcement personnel, including municipal, county, and state officers, as well as employees of correctional facilities. Under this legislation, these individuals are guilty of strangulation chokehold if they intentionally impede another person's normal breathing or blood circulation by blocking the nose or mouth or using any chokehold technique, resulting in serious bodily injury or death. This offense is classified as a first-degree crime, which carries severe penalties of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $200,000, or both.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of chokehold to include any pressure applied to the throat or windpipe that may hinder breathing or reduce air intake. This legislative action follows a directive from the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, which aims to ban the use of chokeholds and similar tactics by police departments, except in situations where deadly force is warranted. The bill is designed to tighten existing policies regarding the use of force by law enforcement, ensuring greater accountability and safety.