This bill amends current New Jersey law to allow for the waiver of juvenile cases to adult court regardless of the juvenile's age under specific circumstances. It expands the list of offenses for which juveniles aged 15 and older can be waived to adult court to include terrorism and human trafficking. Additionally, it establishes that any juvenile, regardless of age, can be waived to adult court if they are charged with terrorism, human trafficking, or other serious offenses, provided that the circumstances and severity of the offense justify such a waiver.

The bill also outlines the process for prosecutors seeking a waiver, including the requirement to file a motion within 60 days of receiving the complaint and to provide a written statement of reasons for the waiver. The court will consider various factors, including the nature of the offense and the juvenile's prior history, when deciding on the waiver. Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a program by the Juvenile Justice Commission to collect and analyze data on the waiver of jurisdiction in juvenile cases, ensuring transparency and accountability in the application of these provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-26.1