This bill establishes the offense of harassing, intimidating, or bullying a minor, defining it as any gesture, written, verbal, or physical act, or electronic communication aimed at causing physical or emotional harm to a minor based on various protected characteristics. The offense is classified as a disorderly persons offense for adults, with fines of up to $100 for a first offense and $250 for subsequent offenses. For minors adjudicated delinquent for such acts, it is classified as a petty disorderly offense, with the same fine structure. The bill also includes provisions for a diversionary program for juveniles charged with this offense, presuming that complaints against minors will be diverted to restorative justice programs if available.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that when a juvenile is charged with an offense of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the resolution includes participation in a remedial education or counseling program designed to raise awareness of the legal and non-legal consequences of such behavior. The program must be available in the juvenile's area and may allow for self-guided awareness programs if appropriate. The bill emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying issues related to bullying and aims to provide educational resources to prevent future incidents.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-71, 2A:4A-71.1, 2A:4A-73