New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S334

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Permits title of Attorney General for person who served as Acting Attorney General for 180 days.

Impact

The proposed legislation would have immediate implications for how the title of Attorney General is conferred upon individuals who assume the role temporarily. Previously, there was ambiguity regarding title recognition for those serving in an acting capacity. With the enactment of S334, any individual who meets the 180-day criterion would retain the title of Attorney General in official records and documentation, thereby fostering continuity in the office's historical narrative and legal authority.

Summary

Senate Bill S334 aims to amend existing New Jersey law regarding the title of Attorney General. Specifically, the bill permits an individual who has served as Acting Attorney General for a continuous period of at least 180 days to be recognized as 'Attorney General of the State of New Jersey' for historical purposes, even after their term ends. This change acknowledges the legitimacy of the office-holder's experience during their tenure as Acting Attorney General and formalizes their title post-service.

Contention

While the bill seems straightforward in its intent to clarify title recognition, there could be points of contention regarding its potential implications on the appointment and succession procedures within the Attorney General's office. Discussions may arise around whether the criteria of 180 days is sufficient for establishing the legitimacy of one's role, or if this introduces complications related to interim appointments during transitions.

Statutory_change

The legislation amends P.L.1948, c.142, specifically Section 1, to specify that a temporary break in service—due to travel or illness—does not disqualify one from having their time served counted towards the 180-day requirement. This provision is designed to ensure that legitimate service is maintained regardless of minor interruptions, thereby protecting the historical integrity of the office.

Companion Bills

NJ S2499

Carry Over Permits title of Attorney General for person who served as Acting Attorney General for 180 days.

NJ A4025

Carry Over Permits title of Attorney General for person who served as Acting Attorney General for 180 days.

Previously Filed As

NJ SB39

Generally revise attorney fee awards

NJ HB1601

Special assistant attorneys general.

NJ HF530

A bill for an act authorizing a member of the general assembly, judicial officer, attorney general, deputy attorney general, or an assistant attorney general to be issued a professional permit to carry weapons. (Formerly HSB 166.)

NJ SB574

An act to amend Section 6173 of, and to add Section 6068.1 to, the Business and Professions Code, and to amend Section 128.7 of, and to add Sections 180 and 1282.1 to, the Code of Civil Procedure, relating to civil proceedings.

NJ SF4295

Office of the Attorney General additional attorneys appropriation

NJ HB0102

Attorney general-elected.

NJ SB727

Provides the venue for cases against prosecuting attorneys and the Attorney General

NJ SB974

Clarifying Attorney General oversight of political subdivision's hiring of private attorneys

NJ HB2466

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4 and Title 8, relative to district attorneys general.

NJ SB2462

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4 and Title 8, relative to district attorneys general.

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