New JerseyGiving edible drugs to children near schools would draw tougher penalties
People who give edible controlled drugs to children under 17, or hold them with plans to do so, would face a more serious charge in covered school and youth settings.
What it does
Giving edible controlled drugs to a child under 17, or holding them with plans to do so, would bring a second-degree charge in covered places. That generally means five to 10 years in prison, unless a sentencing exception applies.
Argument forA more serious charge could discourage people from giving edible drugs to children under 17 at schools, camps, and youth events.
Argument againstSomeone could face a long prison term for holding edible drugs with plans to give them to a child, even before any transfer.
More detail
The bill would make distributing, or holding with plans to distribute, edible controlled drugs or similar substances to children under 17 a second-degree crime in covered places. Covered places include school grounds and buses, places within 1,000 feet of either, child care centers, camps, youth sports events, and school activities. Child care centers and youth camps must be licensed. School or community youth sports events and school activities count during the event or activity and for one hour before and after. A court would have to impose prison time unless a separate sentencing exception applies. If enacted, the change would take effect immediately.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Sep 14Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary CommitteeIntroduced
Criminal JusticePublic Safety