This bill amends the statutory definition of "abused child" in New Jersey law to include additional forms of abuse. Specifically, it introduces new criteria under which a child can be classified as abused, including instances where a parent, guardian, or custodian commits or allows to be committed an act of sexual abuse or human trafficking against the child. The language added to the law specifies that these acts are to be defined according to existing legal definitions, thereby expanding the scope of what constitutes child abuse.

The bill retains the existing definitions of abuse related to physical injury, risk of injury, neglect, abandonment, and inappropriate institutional placement, while enhancing protections for children against sexual exploitation and trafficking. The changes aim to provide a more comprehensive legal framework for identifying and addressing various forms of abuse, ensuring that children are better protected under New Jersey law. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:6-8.9