This bill establishes the crime of reckless discharge of a firearm in New Jersey, defining it as a disorderly persons offense for a first offense involving the unlawful use of live ammunition. A second offense is classified as a crime of the fourth degree, while a third or subsequent offense escalates to a crime of the third degree. The bill also stipulates that if the reckless discharge occurs within 100 yards of an occupied structure or educational institution, the offense is charged as one degree higher than usual.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that a conviction for reckless discharge does not merge with other related convictions, allowing for separate sentences for each offense. It mandates that multiple sentences for different offenses run consecutively. An affirmative defense is provided for individuals who can demonstrate that they were acting in lawful self-defense at the time of the offense. The term "recklessly" is defined in accordance with existing law, specifically referencing N.J.S.2C:2-2.