TRENTON, NJ – The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee has advanced legislation aimed at ensuring law enforcement use of force policies are regularly updated, prioritize de-escalation, and consider the sanctity of human life. The bill, S-2348, would require the Attorney General to review the statewide use of force policy at least every two years, with possible shorter intervals if deemed necessary.
Senator Singleton (D-Burlington) emphasized the importance of the regular review of the statewide use of force policy, stating that it is crucial to ensure proper policing throughout New Jersey. The bill seeks to enshrine de-escalation as a priority and to advocate the use of reasonable force, ensuring that these principles remain central to the use of force policy in future administrations.
In addition to the prioritization of de-escalation, the bill requires the Attorney General to consider the sanctity of human life and promote the use of only reasonable, necessary, and proportional force. Senator Angela McKnight (D-Hudson) highlighted the significance of the bill in aligning statewide use of force policies with the principles that should guide policing, aiming to restore public confidence in law enforcement. The legislation received approval in a 3-1 vote.
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