Makes permanent the "Commission to Protect New Jersey Inmates from Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct."
Impact
By making the commission permanent, SJR95 reinforces the state's commitment to monitoring and addressing the safety of inmates. The permanent commission will be mandated to compile and submit annual reports to the Governor and the Legislature, which includes findings and proposed legislative measures stemming from its investigative work. This continuous oversight is intended to uphold and promote compliance with established statutory protections, particularly the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), ensuring that inmate safety standards are maintained and improved over time.
Summary
SJR95 seeks to make permanent the 'Commission to Protect New Jersey Inmates from Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct.' Initially established as a temporary body in 2020, the commission was created to investigate and report on issues related to the safety and rights of inmates in state correctional facilities. The core focus of the commission is to address allegations of sexual assault, misconduct, and harassment involving correctional officers and staff, particularly concerning inmates at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women. SJR95 aims to ensure that these critical evaluations and recommendations continue without interruption after the temporary commission's expiration.
Contention
The discussions surrounding SJR95 highlight the importance of addressing inmate safety comprehensively. While supporters stress the necessity of the commission for ongoing advocacy and oversight against sexual misconduct, opponents may raise concerns regarding the effectiveness of such commissions and whether they adequately address the systemic issues within correctional institutions. The establishment of a permanent entity that examines safety protocols, investigates misconduct, and examines legislative proposals signals a proactive step, yet it will require regular support from both state government and community advocates to realize its objectives fully.
An Act to Protect Communications by Alleged Victims Regarding Sexual Assault, Sexual Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Cyberbullying or Discrimination from Litigation
Makes it aggravated sexual assault or sexual contact for transportation network company or taxicab driver to commit act of sexual penetration or sexual contact using coercion or without permission on passenger.
Makes it aggravated sexual assault or sexual contact for transportation network company or taxicab driver to commit act of sexual penetration or sexual contact using coercion or without permission on passenger.