ASSEMBLY SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 2738

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  FEBRUARY 19, 2026

      The Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 2738.

      As reported, this bill provides that a person may be guilty of child endangerment through the use of social media.

      Under the bill, a person is guilty of child endangerment if via electronic communication that person knowingly acts in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or moral welfare of a child less than 18 years of age or directs or authorizes a child to engage in an occupation involving a substantial risk of danger to the child’s life or health.

      The bill provides that violators would be subject to current child endangerment penalties, making this offense a second degree crime if the actor has a legal duty for the care to the child or has assumed responsibility for the care of the child.  For all other persons, it is a crime of the third degree.

      The penalty for a second degree crime is a term of five to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $150,000, or both.  The penalty for a third degree crime is a term of three to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.

      This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2026-2027 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.