The proposed resolution seeks to amend the New Jersey Constitution to allow the Legislature to create a Bureau of Probation within the State Parole Board. This amendment would transfer all probation-related functions, powers, duties, and responsibilities from the Judiciary to this new Bureau, including the roles of probation officers and other related personnel. Importantly, the resolution stipulates that existing contracts and employee bargaining representatives will remain unchanged, ensuring continuity in employment terms and conditions.

This constitutional amendment comes in response to a 2006 New Jersey Supreme Court ruling that deemed a previous law unconstitutional due to separation of powers concerns, asserting that the Judiciary should define the duties of probation officers. The proposed change aims to clarify the structure and authority surrounding probation functions while maintaining the integrity of existing contracts and employee rights. If agreed upon, the amendment will be presented to voters in the next general election, allowing the public to decide on this significant shift in probation management.