This bill amends New Jersey's implied consent law to include blood testing for the detection of alcohol and certain controlled substances, specifically marijuana. It establishes a per se standard for driving under the influence of marijuana, defining a person as under the influence if their blood contains three nanograms or more of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per milliliter. Additionally, it specifies that a person is considered under the influence if their blood contains any amount of a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance or certain amounts of Schedule II or III substances that have not been medically prescribed. The bill also subjects individuals who refuse blood tests to the same penalties as those who refuse breath tests, thereby expanding the scope of the implied consent law.

Moreover, the bill modifies penalties for operating a vehicle under the influence, including fines, detainment periods, and requirements for installing ignition interlock devices. While it maintains existing penalties for alcohol-related offenses, it expands the definitions and consequences for drug-related offenses. The changes aim to enhance road safety by addressing the growing concern of drug-impaired driving alongside alcohol impairment, thereby holding drivers accountable for operating vehicles under the influence of various substances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-50.2