ASSEMBLY PUBLIC SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 4527

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 17, 2024

      The Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 4527.

      As reported by the committee, this bill expands the definition of “burglar’s tool” to include that which may be considered an “engine, machine, tool or implement.”

     Under the bill, an engine, machine, tool, implement, or program manufactured or possessed in violation of N.J.S.2C:5-5 includes such which may provide access to a premises through a keyless locking mechanism.

     Under the bill, it is a crime of the fourth degree if the person manufactured such instrument or implements or published such plans or instructions for tools which may provide access to a premises through a keyless locking mechanism.  If the person merely possesses an instrument in violation of the statute, then it is a disorderly persons offense.

      A fourth degree crime is punishable by up to 18 months imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.  A disorderly persons offense is punishable by up to six months imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.