Bill Text: NJ A4082 | 2016-2017 | Regular Session | Introduced


Bill Title: Establishes third or subsequent DWI offenses as fourth degree crime.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)

Status: (Introduced - Dead) 2016-09-15 - Introduced, Referred to Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee [A4082 Detail]

Download: New_Jersey-2016-A4082-Introduced.html

ASSEMBLY, No. 4082

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

217th LEGISLATURE

 

INTRODUCED SEPTEMBER 15, 2016

 


 

Sponsored by:

Assemblyman  REED GUSCIORA

District 15 (Hunterdon and Mercer)

 

 

 

 

SYNOPSIS

     Establishes third or subsequent DUI offenses as fourth degree crime.

 

 

CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT

     As introduced.

  


An Act concerning driving while intoxicated, supplementing Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, and amending various sections of the statutory law. 

 

     Be It Enacted by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

 

     1.    (New section) a. A person who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant's blood or permits another person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug to operate a motor vehicle owned by him or in his custody or control or permits another to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant's blood shall  for a third or subsequent violation be guilty of a crime of the fourth degree.  Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:43-2, a person convicted pursuant to this section shall forfeit the right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for 10 years which shall commence following the period of incarceration or drug or alcohol inpatient rehabilitation imposed pursuant to this section.  A person convicted pursuant to this section also shall be required to install an ignition interlock device under the provisions of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.16 et al.).

     Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection a. of N.J.S.2C:43-6, a person who violates this section shall be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than 180 days, except that the court may lower the term for each day, not exceeding 90 days, served participating in a drug or alcohol inpatient rehabilitation program approved by the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. 

     b.    Pursuant to the requirements set forth in R.S.39:4-50, a person convicted pursuant to this section shall satisfy the screening, evaluation, referral, program and fee requirements of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services' Intoxicated Driving Program Unit, and of the Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers and a program of alcohol and drug education and highway safety, as prescribed by the chief administrator.  The sentencing court shall inform the person convicted that failure to satisfy the requirements shall result in a mandatory two-day term of imprisonment in a county jail and a driver license revocation or suspension and continuation of revocation or suspension until the requirements are satisfied, unless stayed by court order in accordance with the Rules Governing the Courts of the State of New Jersey, or R.S.39:5-22.  Upon sentencing, the court shall forward to the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services' Intoxicated Driving Program Unit a copy of a person's conviction record.  A fee of $100 shall be payable to the Alcohol Education, Rehabilitation and Enforcement Fund established pursuant to section 3 of P.L.1983, c.531 (C.26:2B-32) to support the Intoxicated Driving Program Unit.

     c.     Upon conviction of a violation of this section, the court shall collect forthwith the New Jersey driver's license or licenses of the person so convicted and forward the license or licenses to the chief administrator.  The court shall inform the person convicted that if he is convicted of personally operating a motor vehicle during the period of license suspension imposed pursuant to subsection a. of this section, he shall, upon conviction, be subject to the penalties established in R.S.39:3-40. The person convicted shall be informed orally and in writing.  A person shall be required to acknowledge receipt of that written notice in writing. Failure to receive a written notice or failure to acknowledge in writing the receipt of a written notice shall not be a defense to a subsequent charge of a violation of R.S.39:3-40.  In the event that a person convicted under this section is the holder of any out-of-State driver's license, the court shall not collect the license but shall notify the chief administrator, who shall, in turn, notify appropriate officials in the licensing jurisdiction.  The court shall, however, revoke the nonresident's driving privilege to operate a motor vehicle in this State, in accordance with this section. 

     d.    If a violation of this section occurs while:

     (1)   on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of the school property;

     (2)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 if the municipality, by ordinance or resolution, has designated the school crossing as such; or

     (3)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 knowing that juveniles are present if the municipality has not designated the school crossing as such by ordinance or resolution, the convicted person shall be guilty of a crime of the third degree and, notwithstanding the provisions of subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:43-2, shall forfeit the right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for 20 years.

     A map or true copy of a map depicting the location and boundaries of the area on or within 1,000 feet of any property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board produced pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1987, c.101 (C.2C:35-7) may be used in a prosecution under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

     It shall not be relevant to the imposition of sentence pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection that the defendant was unaware that the prohibited conduct took place while on or within 1,000 feet of any school property or while driving through a school crossing.  It shall not be relevant to the imposition of sentence that no juveniles were present on the school property or crossing zone at the time of the offense or that the school was not in session.

 

     2.    N.J.S.2C:11-5 is amended to read as follows:

     2C:11-5. Death by auto or vessel. a.          Criminal homicide constitutes vehicular homicide when it is caused by driving a vehicle or vessel recklessly.

     Proof that the defendant fell asleep while driving or was driving after having been without sleep for a period in excess of 24 consecutive hours may give rise to an inference that the defendant was driving recklessly.  Proof that the defendant was driving while intoxicated in violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or was operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs in violation of section 3 of P.L.1952, c.157 (C.12:7-46) shall give rise to an inference that the defendant was driving recklessly.  Proof that the defendant was operating a hand-held wireless telephone while driving a motor vehicle in violation of section 1 of P.L.2003, c.310 (C.39:4-97.3) may give rise to an inference that the defendant was driving recklessly.  Nothing in this section shall be construed to in any way limit the conduct or conditions that may be found to constitute driving a vehicle or vessel recklessly.

     b.    Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, vehicular homicide is a crime of the second degree.

     (1)   If the defendant was operating the auto or vessel while under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or with a blood alcohol concentration at or above the prohibited level as prescribed in R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or if the defendant was operating the auto or vessel while his driver's license or reciprocity privilege was suspended or revoked for any violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), by the [Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles] Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission pursuant to P.L.1982, c.85 (C.39:5-30a et seq.), or by the court for a violation of R.S.39:4-96, the defendant shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment by the court.  The term of imprisonment shall include the imposition of a minimum term.  The minimum term shall be fixed at, or between, one-third and one-half of the sentence imposed by the court or three years, whichever is greater, during which the defendant shall be ineligible for parole.

     (2)   The court shall not impose a mandatory sentence pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection unless the grounds therefor have been established at a hearing.  At the hearing, which may occur at the time of sentencing, the prosecutor shall establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant was operating the auto or vessel while under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or with a blood alcohol concentration at or above the level prescribed in R.S.39:4-50 or that the defendant was operating the auto or vessel while his driver's license or reciprocity privilege was suspended or revoked for any violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), by the [Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles] Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission pursuant to P.L.1982, c.85 (C.39:5-30a et seq.), or by the court for a violation of R.S.39:4-96.  In making its findings, the court shall take judicial notice of any evidence, testimony or information adduced at the trial, plea hearing, or other court proceedings and shall also consider the presentence report and any other relevant information.

     (3)   Vehicular homicide is a crime of the first degree if the defendant was operating the auto or vessel while in violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) while:

     (a)   on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of such school property;

     (b)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 if the municipality, by ordinance or resolution, has designated the school crossing as such; or

     (c)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 knowing that juveniles are present if the municipality has not designated the school crossing as such by ordinance or resolution.

     A map or true copy of a map depicting the location and boundaries of the area on or within 1,000 feet of any property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board produced pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1987, c.101 (C.2C:35-7) may be used in a prosecution under subparagraph (a) of this paragraph.

     It shall be no defense to a prosecution for a violation of subparagraph (a) or (b) of this paragraph that the defendant was unaware that the prohibited conduct took place while on or within 1,000 feet of any school property or while driving through a school crossing.  Nor shall it be a defense to a prosecution under subparagraph (a) or (b) of this paragraph that no juveniles were present on the school property or crossing zone at the time of the offense or that the school was not in session.

     (4)   If the defendant was operating the auto or vessel in violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), the defendant's license to operate a motor vehicle shall be suspended for a period of between five years and life, which period shall commence upon completion of any prison sentence imposed upon that person.

     c.     For good cause shown, the court may, in accepting a plea of guilty under this section, order that such plea not be evidential in any civil proceeding.

     d.    Nothing herein shall be deemed to preclude, if the evidence so warrants, an indictment and conviction for aggravated manslaughter under the provisions of subsection a. of N.J.S.2C:11-4.

     As used in this section, "auto or vessel" means all means of conveyance propelled otherwise than by muscular power.

     e.     Any person who violates paragraph (3) of subsection b. of this section shall forfeit the auto or vessel used in the commission of the offense, unless the defendant can establish at a hearing, which may occur at the time of sentencing, by a preponderance of the evidence that such forfeiture would constitute a serious hardship to the family of the defendant that outweighs the need to deter such conduct by the defendant and others.  In making its findings, the court shall take judicial notice of any evidence, testimony or information adduced at the trial, plea hearing, or other court proceedings and shall also consider the presentence report and any other relevant information.  Forfeiture pursuant to this subsection shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, civil forfeiture pursuant to chapter 64 of this title.

(cf: P.L.2012, c.22, s.1)

 

     3.    Section 2 of P.L.1979, c.396 (C.2C:43-3.1) is amended to read as follows:

     2.    a.  (1)  In addition to any disposition made pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.2C:43-2, any person convicted of a crime of violence, theft of an automobile pursuant to N.J.S.2C:20-2, eluding a law enforcement officer pursuant to subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:29-2 or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle pursuant to subsection b., c. or d. of N.J.S.2C:20-10 shall be assessed at least [$100.00] $100, but not to exceed [$10,000.00] $10,000 for each such crime for which he was convicted which resulted in the injury or death of another person.  In imposing this assessment, the court shall consider factors such as the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal record, defendant's ability to pay and the economic impact of the assessment on the defendant's dependents. 

      (2) (a)  In addition to any other disposition made pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.2C:43-2 or any other statute imposing sentences for crimes, any person convicted of any disorderly persons offense, any petty disorderly persons offense, or any crime not resulting in the injury or death of any other person shall be assessed [$50.00]  $50 for each such offense or crime for which he was convicted. 

     (b)   In addition to any other disposition made pursuant to the provisions of section 24 of P.L.1982, c.77 (C.2A:4A-43) or any other statute indicating the dispositions that can be ordered for adjudications of delinquency, any juvenile adjudicated delinquent, according to the definition of "delinquency" established in section 4 of P.L.1982, c.77 (C.2A:4A-23), shall be assessed at least [$30.00] $30 for each such adjudication, but not to exceed the amount which could be assessed pursuant to paragraph (1) or paragraph (2) (a) of subsection a. of this section if the offense was committed by an adult. 

     (c)   In addition to any other assessment imposed pursuant to the provisions of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), the provisions of section 12 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.20) relating to a violation of section 5 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13), the provisions of section 19 of P.L.1954, c.236 (C.12:7-34.19) or the provisions of section 3 of P.L.1952, c.157 (C.12:7-46), any person convicted of operating a motor vehicle, commercial motor vehicle or vessel while under the influence of liquor or drugs shall be assessed [$50.00] $50

     (d)  In addition to any term or condition that may be included in an agreement for supervisory treatment pursuant to N.J.S.2C:43-13 or imposed as a term or condition of conditional discharge pursuant to N.J.S.2C:36A-1, a participant in either program shall be required to pay an assessment of [$50.00] $50

     (3)   All assessments provided for in this section shall be collected as provided in section 3 of P.L.1979, c.396 (C.2C:46-4) and the court shall so order at the time of sentencing.  When a defendant who is sentenced to incarceration in a State correctional facility has not, at the time of sentencing, paid an assessment for the crime for which he is being sentenced or an assessment imposed for a previous crime, the court shall specifically order the Department of Corrections to collect the assessment during the period of incarceration and to deduct the assessment from any income the inmate receives as a result of labor performed at the institution or on any work release program or from any personal account established in the institution for the benefit of the inmate.  All moneys collected, whether in part or in full payment of any assessment imposed pursuant to this section, shall be forwarded monthly by the parties responsible for collection, together with a monthly accounting on forms prescribed by the Victims of Crime Compensation Board pursuant to section 19 of P.L.1991, c.329 (C.52:4B-8.1), to the Victims of Crime Compensation Board. 

     (4)  The Victims of Crime Compensation Board shall forward monthly all moneys received from assessments collected pursuant to this section to the State Treasury for deposit as follows: 

     (a)  Of moneys collected on assessments imposed pursuant to paragraph a. (1): 

     (i)  the first [$72.00] $72 collected for deposit in the Victims of Crime Compensation Board Account, 

     (ii)  the next [$3.00] $3 collected for deposit in the Criminal Disposition and Revenue Collection Fund, 

     (iii)  the next [$25.00] $25 collected for deposit in the Victim Witness Advocacy Fund, and 

     (iv)  moneys collected in excess of [$100.00] $100 for deposit in the Victims of Crime Compensation Board Account; 

     (b)  Of moneys collected on assessments imposed pursuant to paragraph a. (2) (a), (c) or (d):  

     (i)  the first [$39.00] $39 collected for deposit in the Victims of Crime Compensation Board Account, 

     (ii)  the next [$3.00] $3 collected for deposit in the Criminal Disposition and Revenue Collection Fund, and 

     (iii)  the next [$8.00] $8 collected for deposit in the Victim and Witness Advocacy Fund; 

     (c)  Of moneys collected on assessments imposed pursuant to [paragraph a. (2) (b)] subparagraph (b) of paragraph (2) of subsection a. of this section

     (i)  the first [$17.00] $17 for deposit in the Victims of Crime Compensation Board Account, and 

     (ii)  the next [$3.00] $3 collected for deposit in the Criminal Disposition and Revenue Collection Fund, and 

     (iii)  the next [$10.00] $10 for deposit in the Victim and Witness Advocacy Fund, and 

     (iv)  moneys collected in excess of [$30.00] $30 for deposit in the Victims of Crime Compensation Board Account. 

     (5)  The Victims of Crime Compensation Board shall provide the Attorney General with a monthly accounting of moneys received, deposited and identified as receivable, on forms prescribed pursuant to section 19 of P.L.1991, c.329 (C.52:4B-8.1). 

     (6)  (a)  The Victims of Crime Compensation Board Account shall be a separate, nonlapsing, revolving account that shall be administered by the Victims of Crime Compensation Board.  All moneys deposited in that Account shall be used in satisfying claims pursuant to the provisions of the "Criminal Injuries Compensation Act of 1971," P.L.1971, c.317 (C.52:4B-1 et seq.) and for related administrative costs. 

     (b)  The Criminal Disposition and Revenue Collection Fund shall be a separate, nonlapsing, revolving account that shall be administered by the Victims of Crime Compensation Board.  All moneys deposited in that Fund shall be used as provided in section 19 of P.L.1991, c.329 (C.52:4B-8.1). 

     (c)  The Victim and Witness Advocacy Fund shall be a separate, nonlapsing, revolving fund and shall be administered by the Division of Criminal Justice, Department of Law and Public Safety and all moneys deposited in that Fund pursuant to this section shall be used for the benefit of victims and witnesses of crime as provided in section 20 of P.L.1991, c.329 (C.52:4B-43.1) and for related administrative costs. 

     b.  (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1991, c.329).

     c.  (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1991, c.329).

     d.  (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1991, c.329).

(cf:  P.L.1995, c.135, s.1)

 

     4.    Section 11 of P.L.1993, c.220 (C.2C:43-3.2) is amended to read as follows:

     11.  a. (1) In addition to any other fine, fee or assessment imposed, any person convicted of a crime, disorderly or petty disorderly persons offense or violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) shall be assessed $75 for each conviction. 

     (2)  In addition to any term or condition that may be included in an agreement for supervisory treatment pursuant to N.J.S.2C:43-13 or imposed as a term or condition of conditional discharge pursuant to section 3 of P.L.1987, c.106 (C.2C:36A-1), a participant in either program shall be required to pay an assessment of $75. 

     b.    All assessments provided for in this section shall be collected as provided for collection of fines and restitutions in section 3 of P.L.1979, c.396 (C.2C:46-4) and shall be forwarded to the Department of the Treasury as provided in subsection c. of this section. 

     c.     All money collected pursuant to this section shall be forwarded to the Department of the Treasury to be deposited into the Safe Neighborhoods Services Fund created by section 5 of this act. 

(cf:  P.L.1993, c.220, s.11) 

 

     5.    Section 6 of P.L.1983, c.65 (C.17:29A-35) is amended to read as follows:

     6.  a.  (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1997, c.151.)

     b.    There is created a Motor Vehicle Violations Surcharge System which shall apply to all drivers and shall include, but not be limited to, the following provisions:

     (1)  (a)  Surcharges shall be levied, beginning on or after January 1, 1984, by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (hereinafter the "commission") established by section 4 of P.L.2003, c.13 (C.39:2A-4) on any driver who, in the preceding 36-month period, has accumulated six or more motor vehicle points, as provided in Title 39 of the Revised Statutes; except that the allowance for a reduction of points in Title 39 of the Revised Statutes shall not apply for the purpose of determining surcharges under this paragraph.  The accumulation of points shall be calculated as of the date the point violation is posted to the driver history record and shall be levied pursuant to rules promulgated by the commission.  Surcharges assessed pursuant to this paragraph shall be [$150.00] $150 for six points, and [$25.00] $25 for each additional point.  No offense shall be selected for billing which occurred prior to February 10, 1983. No offense shall be considered for billing in more than three annual assessments.

     (b)   (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1984, c.1.)

     (2)  (a)  Surcharges shall be levied pursuant to subsection f. of section 1 of P.L.2000, c.75 (C.39:4-97.2) for each offense of unsafe driving under subsection a. of that section.

     (b)   Surcharges shall be levied for convictions (i) under R.S.39:4-50 for violations occurring on or after February 10, 1983, and section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) and (ii) under section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), or for offenses committed in other jurisdictions of a substantially similar nature to those under R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), for violations occurring on or after January 26, 1984. Except as hereinafter provided, surcharges under this subparagraph (b) shall be levied annually for a three-year period, and shall be [$1,000.00] $1,000 per year for each of the first two convictions, for a total surcharge of $3,000 for each conviction, and [$1,500.00] $1,500 per year for the third conviction occurring within a three-year period, for a total surcharge of $4,500 for the third conviction. If a driver is convicted under [both] either R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) and section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) for offenses arising out of the same incident, the driver shall be assessed only one surcharge for the two offenses.

     If, upon written notification from the commission or its designee, mailed to the last address of record with the commission, a driver fails to pay a surcharge levied under this section and collectible by the commission, the driving privilege of the driver shall be suspended forthwith until at least five percent of each outstanding surcharge assessment that has resulted in suspension is paid to the commission; except that the commission may authorize payment of the surcharge on an installment basis over a period of 12 months for assessments under $2,300 or 24 months for assessments of $2,300 or more.  The commission, for good cause, may authorize payment of any surcharge on an installment basis over a period not to exceed 36 months.  If a driver fails to pay the surcharge or any installments on the surcharge, the total surcharge shall become due immediately, except as otherwise prescribed by rule of the commission.

     The commission may authorize any person to pay the surcharge levied under this section and collectible by the commission by use of a credit card, debit card or other electronic payment device, and the administrator is authorized to require the person to pay all costs incurred by the commission in connection with the acceptance of the credit card, debit card or other electronic payment device.  If a surcharge or related administrative fee is paid by credit or debit cards or any other electronic payment device and the amount is subsequently reversed by the credit card company or bank, the driving privilege of the surcharged driver shall be suspended and the driver shall be subject to the fee imposed for dishonored checks pursuant to section 31 of P.L.1994, c.60 (C.39:5-36.1).

     In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the commission is authorized to utilize the provisions of the SOIL (Set off of Individual Liability) program established pursuant to P.L.1981, c.239 (C.54A:9-8.1 et seq.) to collect any surcharge levied under this section and collectible by the commission that is unpaid on or after the effective date of this act. As an additional remedy, the commission may issue a certificate to the Clerk of the Superior Court stating that the person identified in the certificate is indebted under this surcharge law in such amount as shall be stated in the certificate.  The certificate shall reference the statute under which the indebtedness arises.  Thereupon the clerk to whom such certificate shall have been issued shall immediately enter upon the record of docketed judgments the name of such person as debtor; the State as creditor; the address of such person, if shown in the certificate; the amount of the debt so certified; a reference to the statute under which the surcharge is assessed, and the date of making such entries.  The docketing of the entries shall have the same force and effect as a civil judgment docketed in the Superior Court, and the commission shall have all the remedies and may take all of the proceedings for the collection thereof which may be had or taken upon the recovery of a judgment in an action, but without prejudice to any right of appeal.  Upon entry by the clerk of the certificate in the record of docketed judgments in accordance with this provision, interest in the amount specified by the court rules for post-judgment interest shall accrue from the date of the docketing of the certificate, however payment of the interest may be waived by the commission or its designee.  In the event that the surcharge remains unpaid following the issuance of the certificate of debt and the commission takes any further collection action including referral of the matter to the Attorney General or his designee, the fee imposed, in lieu of the actual cost of collection, may be 20 percent of surcharges of $1,000 or more.  The administrator or his designee may establish a sliding scale, not to exceed a maximum amount of $200, for surcharge principal amounts of less than $1,000 at the time the certificate of debt is forwarded to the Superior Court for filing.  The commission shall provide written notification to a driver of the proposed filing of the certificate of debt at least 10 days prior to the proposed filing; such notice shall be mailed to the driver's last address of record with the commission.  Upon the filing of a certificate of debt with the Clerk of the Superior Court, the surcharged driver shall not be eligible for the restoration of his driving privilege until at least five percent of each outstanding surcharge assessment that has resulted in the suspension, including interest and costs, if any, is paid to the commission.  If a certificate of debt is satisfied following a credit card payment, debit card payment or payment by other electronic payment device and that payment is reversed, a new certificate of debt shall be filed against the surcharged driver unless the original is reinstated.

     If the administrator or his designee approves a special payment plan, of such duration as the administrator or his designee deems appropriate, for repayment of the certificate of debt, and the driver is complying with the approved plan, the plan may be continued for any new surcharge not part of the certificate of debt.

     All moneys collectible by the commission under subparagraph (b) of paragraph (2) of this subsection b. shall be billed and collected by the commission except as provided in P.L.1997, c.280 (C.2B:19-10 et al.) for the collection of unpaid surcharges.  Commencing on September 1, 1996, or such earlier time as the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance shall certify to the State Treasurer that amounts on deposit in the New Jersey Automobile Insurance Guaranty Fund are sufficient to satisfy the current and anticipated financial obligations of the New Jersey Automobile Full Insurance Underwriting Association, all surcharges collected by the commission under subparagraph (b) of paragraph (2) of this subsection b. shall be remitted to the Division of Motor Vehicles Surcharge Fund:

     (i)    for transfer to the Market Transition Facility Revenue Fund, as provided in section 12 of P.L.1994, c.57 (C.34:1B-21.12), for the purposes of section 4 of P.L.1994, c.57 (C.34:1B-21.4) until such a time as all the Market Transition Facility bonds, notes and obligations and all Motor Vehicle Commission bonds, notes and obligations issued pursuant to that section 4 of P.L.1994, c.57 (C.34:1B-21.4) and the costs thereof are discharged and no longer outstanding; and

     (ii)   from and after the date of certification by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance that the moneys collectible under subparagraph (b) of paragraph (2) of this subsection b. are no longer needed to fund the association or at such time as all Market Transition Facility bonds, notes and obligations and all Motor Vehicle Commission bonds, notes and obligations issued pursuant to section 4 of P.L.1994, c.57 (C.34:1B-21.4) and the costs thereof are discharged and no longer outstanding, for transfer to the Motor Vehicle Surcharges Revenue Fund established pursuant to section 6 of the "Motor Vehicle Surcharges Securitization Act of 2004," P.L.2004, c.70 (C.34:1B-21.28) to be applied as set forth in section 6 that act.  From and after such time as all bonds issued under section 4 of the "Motor Vehicle Surcharges Securitization Act of 2004," P.L.2004, c.70 (C.34:1B-21.26) and the costs thereof are discharged and no longer outstanding, all surcharges collected by the commission under subparagraph (b) of paragraph (2) of this subsection b. shall, subject to appropriation, be remitted to the New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association created pursuant to section 6 of P.L.1974, c.17 (C.17:30A-6) to be used for payment of any loans made by that association to the New Jersey Automobile Insurance Guaranty Fund pursuant to paragraph (10) of subsection a. of section 8 of P.L.1974, c.17 (C.17:30A-8); provided that all such payments shall be subject to and dependent upon appropriation by the State Legislature.

     All surcharges collected by the courts pursuant to subparagraph (a) of paragraph (2) of this subsection b. shall be forwarded not less frequently than monthly to the Division of Revenue.  The Division of Revenue shall transfer: all such surcharges received prior to July 1, 2006, to the General Fund, and commencing July 1, 2006, all such surcharges to the Unsafe Driving Surcharge Revenue Fund established pursuant to section 5 of the "Motor Vehicle Surcharges Securitization Act of 2004," P.L.2004, c.70 (C.34:1B-21.27) to be applied as set forth in section 5 of that act.  From and after such time as all bonds (including refunding bonds), notes and other obligations issued under section 4 of the "Motor Vehicle Surcharges Securitization Act of 2004," P.L.2004, c.70 (C.34:1B-21.26), and the costs thereof are discharged and no longer outstanding, all such surcharges collected by the courts pursuant to subparagraph (a) of paragraph (2) of this subsection b. and forwarded to the Division of Revenue shall be transferred to the General Fund.

     Upon request, the Administrative Office of the Courts shall provide a monthly report to the Division of Revenue containing information on the number of convictions for the offense of unsafe driving pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2000, c.75 (C.39:4-97.2) that were entered during such month, the amount of the surcharges that were assessed by the courts pursuant to subsection f. of section 1 of P.L.2000, c.75 (C.39:4-97.2) for such month, and the amount of the surcharges collected by the courts pursuant to subsection f. of section 1 of P.L.2000, c.75 (C.39:4-97.2) during such month.

     (3)   In addition to any other authority provided in P.L.1983, c.65 (C.17:29A-33 et al.), the commissioner, after consultation with the commission, is specifically authorized (a) (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1994, c.64), (b) to impose, in accordance with subparagraph (a) of paragraph (1) of this subsection b., surcharges for motor vehicle violations or convictions for which motor vehicle points are not assessed under Title 39 of the Revised Statutes, or (c) to reduce the number of points for which surcharges may be assessed below the level provided in subparagraph (a) of paragraph (1) of this subsection b., except that the dollar amount of all surcharges levied under the Motor Vehicle Violations Surcharge System shall be uniform on a Statewide basis for each filer, without regard to classification or territory.  Surcharges adopted by the commissioner on or after January 1, 1984 for motor vehicle violations or convictions for which motor vehicle points are not assessable under Title 39 of the Revised Statutes shall not be retroactively applied but shall take effect on the date of the New Jersey Register in which notice of adoption appears or the effective date set forth in that notice, whichever is later.

     c.     No motor vehicle violation surcharges shall be levied on an automobile insurance policy issued or renewed on or after January 1, 1984, except in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Violations Surcharge System, and all surcharges levied thereunder shall be assessed, collected and distributed in accordance with subsection b. of this section.

     d.    (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1990, c.8.)

     e.     The Commissioner of Banking and Insurance and the commission as may be appropriate, shall adopt any rules and regulations necessary or appropriate to effectuate the purposes of this section.

(cf:  P.L.2007, c.282, s.1)

 

     6.    Section 25 of P.L.1990, c.8 (C.17:33B-13) is amended to read as follows:

     25.  As used in sections 25 through 33 of [this 1990 amendatory and supplementary act] P.L.1990, c.8 (C.17:33B-1 et al):

     "Automobile" means an automobile as defined in section 2 of P.L.1972, c.70 (C.39:6A-2).

     "Automobile insurance" means insurance for an automobile including coverage for bodily injury liability and property damage liability, comprehensive and collision coverages, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection coverage, additional personal injury protection coverage and any other automobile insurance required by law.

     "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance.

     "Declination" means:

     a.     Refusal by an insurance agent to submit an application on behalf of an applicant to any of the insurers represented by the agent;

     b.    Refusal by an insurer to issue an automobile insurance policy to an eligible person upon receipt of an application for automobile insurance;

     c.     The offer of automobile insurance coverage with less favorable terms or conditions than those requested by an eligible person; or

     d.    The refusal by an insurer or agent to provide, upon the request of an eligible person, an application form or other means of making an application or request for automobile insurance coverage.

     "Automobile insurance eligibility points" means points calculated under the schedule promulgated by the commissioner pursuant to section 26 of this act.

     "Eligible person" means a person who is an owner or registrant of an automobile registered in this State or who holds a valid New Jersey driver's license to operate an automobile, but does not include any person:

     a.     Who, during the three-year period immediately preceding application for, or renewal of, an automobile insurance policy has been convicted pursuant to R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), or for an offense of a substantially similar nature committed in another jurisdiction; has been convicted of a crime of the first, second or third degree resulting from the use of a motor vehicle; or has been convicted of theft of a motor vehicle;

     b.    Whose driver's license to operate an automobile is under suspension or revocation;

     c.     Who has been convicted, within the five-year period immediately preceding application for or renewal of a policy of automobile insurance, of fraud or intent to defraud involving an insurance claim or an application for insurance; or who has been successfully denied, within the immediately preceding five years, payment by an insurer of a claim in excess of $1,000 under an automobile insurance policy, if there was evidence of fraud or intent to defraud involving the automobile insurance claim or application;

     d.    Whose policy of automobile insurance has been canceled because of nonpayment of premium or financed premium within the immediately preceding two-year period, unless the premium due on a policy for which application has been made is paid in full before issuance or renewal of the policy;

     e.     Who fails to obtain or maintain membership or qualification for membership in a club, group, or organization, if membership is a uniform requirement of the insurer as a condition of providing insurance, and if the dues or charges, if any, or other conditions for membership or qualifications for membership are applied uniformly throughout this State, are not expressed as a percentage of the insurance premium, and do not vary with respect to the rating classification of the member or potential member except for the purpose of offering a membership fee to family units.  Membership fees, if applicable, may vary in accordance with the amount or type of coverage if the purchase of additional coverage, either as to type or amount, is not a condition for reduction of dues or fees;

     f.     Whose driving record for the three-year period immediately preceding application for or renewal of a policy of automobile insurance has an accumulation of automobile insurance eligibility points as determined under the schedule promulgated by the commissioner pursuant to section 26 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.8 (C.17:33B-14);

     g.    Who possesses such other risk factors as determined to be relevant by rule or regulation of the commissioner; or

     h.    Who, during the three-year period immediately preceding application for, or renewal of, an automobile insurance policy, has knowingly provided materially false or misleading information in connection with an application for insurance, renewal of insurance or claim for benefits under an insurance policy.

     "Insurance agent" or "agent" means an insurance agent as defined by subsection f. of section 2 of P.L.1987, c.293 (C.17:22A-2) and shall also include an insurance broker as defined by subsection g. of section 2 of P.L.1987, c.293 (C.17:22A-2) who has a brokerage relationship with an insurer.

     "Insurer" means any insurer authorized or admitted to write automobile insurance in this State, but does not include the New Jersey Automobile Full Insurance Underwriting Association created pursuant to sections 13 through 34 of P.L.1983, c.65 (C.17:30E-1 et seq.) or any residual market mechanism implemented pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1970, c.215 (C.17:29D-1).

(cf:  P.L.2003, c.89, s.63)

 

     7. Section 159 of P.L.2012, c.16 (C.30:4C-4.5) is amended to read as follows: 

     159.  a.  Notwithstanding any law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, commencing on or after the effective date of P.L.2012, c.16 (C.52:27D-43.9a et al.) and subject to the provisions of subsection b. of this section, the Division of Children's System of Care in the Department of Children and Families, in lieu of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services in the Department of Human Services, shall provide, manage, and coordinate services for the treatment of alcoholism and substance abuse for persons under 21 years of age, deemed clinically and functionally appropriate by the Department of Children and Families, as limited by service availability and appropriations and other monies available, and to become available, except that, as agreed to by the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Human Services pursuant to subsection b. of this section, the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services may continue to exclusively provide, manage, and coordinate programs and services designed primarily for adults 18 years of age or older, including, but not limited to, services provided pursuant to R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), and the Drug Courts of this State.

     b.    The Commissioner of Human Services and the Commissioner of Children and Families, or the commissioners' designees, shall establish and enter into an inter-agency agreement as necessary for the purposes of subsection a. of this section.

     c.     The Commissioners of Human Services and Children and Families, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), shall adopt, notwithstanding any provision of P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.) to the contrary, immediately upon filing with the Office of Administrative Law, such rules and regulations as the Commissioners deem necessary to effectuate the purposes of section 159 of P.L.2012, c.16 (C.30:4C-4.5), which shall be effective for a period not to exceed 12 months following the effective date of P.L.2012, c.16 (C.52:27D-43.9a et al.).  The regulations shall thereafter be amended, adopted, or readopted by the commissioners in accordance with the provisions of P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.).

     d.    Whenever any current law, rule, regulation, or order pertaining to the treatment of alcoholism and substance abuse for persons under 21 years of age refers to the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services in the Department of Human Services, the same shall mean and refer to the Division of Children's System of Care in the Department of Children and Families, except where the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services continues to exclusively provide, manage, and coordinate programs and services consistent with this section.

(cf:  P.L.2012, c.16, s.159)

 

     8.    Section 11 of P.L.1971, c.317 (C.52:4B-11) is amended to read as follows:   

     11.  The agency may order the payment of compensation in accordance with the provisions of P.L.1971, c.317 for personal injury or death which resulted from:

     a.     an attempt to prevent the commission of crime or to arrest a suspected criminal or in aiding or attempting to aid a police officer so to do; or

     b.    the commission or attempt to commit any of the following offenses:

     (1)   aggravated assault;

     (2)   (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1995, c.135).

     (3)   threats to do bodily harm;

     (4)   lewd, indecent, or obscene acts;

     (5)   indecent acts with children;

     (6)   kidnapping;

     (7)   murder;

     (8)   manslaughter;

     (9)   aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual contact, criminal sexual contact;

     (10) any other crime involving violence including domestic violence as defined by section 3 of P.L.1981, c.426 (C.2C:25-3) or section 3 of P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-19);

     (11) burglary;

     (12) tampering with a cosmetic, drug or food product;

     (13) a violation of human trafficking, section 1 of P.L.2005, c.77 (C.2C:13-8); or

     c.     the commission of a violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 5 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13), section 19 of P.L.1954, c.236 (C.12:7-34.19) or section 3 of P.L.1952, c.157 (C.12:7-46); or

     d.    theft of an automobile pursuant to N.J.S.2C:20-2, eluding a law enforcement officer pursuant to subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:29-2 or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle pursuant to subsection b., c. or d. of N.J.S.2C:20-10 where injuries to the victim occur in the course of operating an automobile in furtherance of the offense; or

     e.     the commission of a violation of N.J.S. 2C:16-1, bias intimidation.

(cf:  P.L.2007, c.303, s.3)

 

     9.    R.S.39:3-10 is amended to read as follows:

     39:3-10.  No person shall drive a motor vehicle on a public highway in this State unless the person is under supervision while participating in a behind-the-wheel driving course pursuant to section 6 of P.L.1977, c.25 (C.39:3-13.2a) or is in possession of a validated permit, or a probationary or basic driver's license issued to that person in accordance with this article.

     No person under 18 years of age shall be issued a basic license to drive motor vehicles, nor shall a person be issued a validated permit, including a validated examination permit, until the applicant has passed a satisfactory examination and other requirements as to the applicant's ability as an operator.  The examination shall include a test of the applicant's vision, the applicant's ability to understand traffic control devices, the applicant's knowledge of safe driving practices, including the dangers of driving a vehicle in an aggressive manner, which shall include, but not be limited to, unexpectedly altering the speed of a vehicle, making improper or erratic traffic lane changes, disregarding traffic control devices, failing to yield the right of way, and following another vehicle too closely, and of the effects that ingestion of alcohol or drugs has on a person's ability to operate a motor vehicle, the applicant's knowledge of such portions of the mechanism of motor vehicles as is necessary to insure the safe operation of a vehicle of the kind or kinds indicated by the applicant, and of the laws and ordinary usages of the road.  No person shall sit for an examination for any permit without exhibiting photo identification deemed acceptable by the commission, unless that person is a high school student participating in a course of automobile driving education approved by the State Department of Education and conducted in a public, parochial, or private school of this State, pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1950, c.127 (C.39:3-13.1).  The commission may waive the written law knowledge examination for any person 18 years of age or older possessing a valid driver's license issued by any other state, the District of Columbia, or the United States Territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the Virgin Islands.  The commission shall be required to provide that person with a booklet that highlights those motor vehicle laws unique to New Jersey.  A road test shall be required for a probationary license and serve as a demonstration of the applicant's ability to operate a vehicle of the class designated.  No person shall sit for a road test unless that person exhibits photo identification deemed acceptable by the commission.  A high school student who has completed a course of behind-the-wheel automobile driving education approved by the State Department of Education and conducted in a public, parochial, or private school of this State, who has been issued a special learner's permit pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1950, c.127 (C.39:3-13.1) prior to January 1, 2003, shall not be required to exhibit photo identification in order to sit for a road test.  The commission may waive the road test for any person 18 years of age or older possessing a valid driver's license issued by any other state, the District of Columbia, or the United States Territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the Virgin Islands.  The road test shall be given on public streets, where practicable and feasible, but may be preceded by an off-street screening process to assess basic skills.  The commission shall approve locations for the road test which pose no more than a minimal risk of injury to the applicant, the examiner, and other motorists.  No new locations for the road test shall be approved unless the test can be given on public streets.

     A person who successfully completes a road test for a motorcycle license or a motorcycle endorsement when operating a motorcycle or motorized scooter with an engine displacement of less than 231 cubic centimeters shall be issued a motorcycle license or endorsement restricting the person's operation of such vehicles to any motorcycle with an engine displacement of 500 cubic centimeters or less.  A person who successfully completes a road test for a motorcycle license or motorcycle endorsement when operating a motorcycle with an engine displacement of 231 or more cubic centimeters shall be issued a motorcycle license or endorsement without any restriction as to engine displacement.  Any person who successfully completes an approved motorcycle safety education course established pursuant to the provisions of section 1 of P.L.1991, c.452 (C.27:5F-36) shall be issued a motorcycle license or endorsement without restriction as to engine displacement.

     The commission shall issue a basic driver's license to operate a motor vehicle other than a motorcycle to a person over 18 years of age who previously has not been licensed to drive a motor vehicle in this State or another jurisdiction only if that person has:  (1) operated a passenger automobile in compliance with the requirements of this title for not less than one year, not including any period of suspension or postponement, from the date of issuance of a probationary license pursuant to section 4 of P.L.1950, c.127 (C.39:3-13.4); (2) not been assessed more than two motor vehicle points; (3) not been convicted in the previous year for a violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14), R.S.39:4-129, N.J.S.2C:11-5, subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1, or any other motor vehicle-related violation the commission determines to be significant and applicable pursuant to regulation; and (4) passed an examination of the applicant's ability to operate a motor vehicle pursuant to this section.

     The commission shall expand the driver's license examination by 20%. The additional questions to be added shall consist solely of questions developed in conjunction with the Department of Health concerning the use of alcohol or drugs as related to highway safety.  The commission shall develop, in conjunction with the Department of Health, supplements to the driver's manual which shall include information necessary to answer any question on the driver's license examination concerning alcohol or drugs as related to highway safety.

     Up to 20 questions may be added to the examination on subjects to be determined by the commission that are of particular relevance to youthful drivers, including the dangers of driving a vehicle in an aggressive manner, which shall include, but not be limited to, unexpectedly altering the speed of a vehicle, making improper or erratic traffic lane changes, disregarding traffic control devices, failing to yield the right of way, and following another vehicle too closely, after consultation with the Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety.

     The commission shall expand the driver's license examination to include a question asking whether the applicant is aware of the provisions of the "Revised Uniform Anatomical Gift Act," P.L.2008, c.50 (C.26:6-77 et al.) and the procedure for indicating on the driver's license the intention to make a donation of body organs or tissues pursuant to P.L.1978, c.181 (C.39:3-12.2).

     The commission shall expand the driver's license examination to include a question asking whether the applicant is aware of the dangers of failing to comply with this State's motor vehicle traffic laws and the "STOP for Nikhil Safety Pledge" set forth in subsection e. of R.S.39:3-41.

     Any person applying for a driver's license to operate a motor vehicle or motorized bicycle in this State shall surrender to the commission any current driver's license issued to the applicant by another state or jurisdiction upon the applicant's receipt of a driver's license for this State.  The commission shall refuse to issue a driver's license if the applicant fails to comply with this provision.  An applicant for a permit or license who is less than 18 years of age, and who holds a permit or license for a passenger automobile issued by another state or country that is valid or has expired within a time period designated by the commission, shall be subject to the permit and license requirements and penalties applicable to State permit and license applicants who are of the same age; except that if the other state or country has permit or license standards substantially similar to those of this State, the credentials of the other state or country shall be acceptable.

     The commission shall create classified licensing of drivers covering the following classifications:

     a.     Motorcycles, except that for the purposes of this section, motorcycle shall not include any three-wheeled motor vehicle equipped with a single cab with glazing enclosing the occupant, seats similar to those of a passenger vehicle or truck, seat belts and automotive steering or any vehicle defined as a motorcycle pursuant to R.S.39:1-1 having a motor with a maximum piston displacement that is less than 50 cubic centimeters or a motor that is rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower with a maximum speed of no more than 35 miles per hour on a flat surface.

     b.    Omnibuses as classified by R.S.39:3-10.1 and school buses classified under N.J.S.18A:39-1 et seq.

     c.     (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1999, c.28).

     d.    All motor vehicles not included in classifications a. and b. A license issued pursuant to this classification d. shall be referred to as the "basic driver's license."

     Every applicant for a license under classification b. shall be a holder of a basic driver's license.  Any issuance of a license under classification b. shall be by endorsement on the basic driver's license.

     A driver's license for motorcycles may be issued separately, but if issued to the holder of a basic driver's license, it shall be by endorsement on the basic driver's license.  The holder of a basic driver's license or a separately issued motorcycle license shall be authorized to operate a motorcycle having a motor with a maximum piston displacement that is less than 50 cubic centimeters or a motor that is rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower with a maximum speed no more than 35 miles per hour on a flat surface.

     The commission, upon payment of the lawful fee and after it or a person authorized by it has examined the applicant and is satisfied of the applicant's ability as an operator, may, in its discretion, issue a license to the applicant to drive a motor vehicle.  The license shall authorize him to drive any registered vehicle, of the kind or kinds indicated, and shall expire, except as otherwise provided, on the last day of the 48th calendar month following the calendar month in which such license was issued.

     The commission may, at its discretion and for good cause shown, issue licenses which shall expire on a date fixed by it. If the commission issues a license to a person who has demonstrated authorization to be present in the United States for a period of time shorter than the standard period of the license, the commission shall fix the expiration date of the license at a date based on the period in which the person is authorized to be present in the United States under federal immigration laws.  The commission may renew such a license only if it is demonstrated that the person's continued presence in the United States is authorized under federal law.  The fee for licenses with expiration dates fixed by the commission shall be fixed by the commission in amounts proportionately less or greater than the fee herein established.

     The required fee for a license for the 48-month period shall be as follows:

     Motorcycle license or endorsement: $18.

     Omnibus or school bus endorsement: $18.

     Basic driver's license: $18.

     The commission shall waive the payment of fees for issuance of omnibus endorsements whenever an applicant establishes to the commission's satisfaction that said applicant will use the omnibus endorsement exclusively for operating omnibuses owned by a nonprofit organization duly incorporated under Title 15 or 16 of the Revised Statutes or Title 15A of the New Jersey Statutes.

     The commission shall issue licenses for the following license period on and after the first day of the calendar month immediately preceding the commencement of such period, such licenses to be effective immediately.

     All applications for renewals of licenses shall be made in a manner prescribed by the commission and in accordance with procedures established by it.

     The commission in its discretion may refuse to grant a permit or license to drive motor vehicles to a person who is, in its estimation, not a proper person to be granted such a permit or license, but no defect of the applicant shall debar the applicant from receiving a permit or license unless it can be shown by tests approved by the commission that the defect incapacitates the applicant from safely operating a motor vehicle.

     In addition to requiring an applicant for a driver's license to submit satisfactory proof of identity and age, the commission also shall require the applicant to provide, as a condition for obtaining a permit and license, satisfactory proof that the applicant's presence in the United States is authorized under federal law.

     If the commission has reasonable cause to suspect that any document presented by an applicant as proof of identity, age or legal residency is altered, false or otherwise invalid, the commission shall refuse to grant the permit or license until such time as the document may be verified by the issuing agency to the commission's satisfaction.

     A person violating this section shall be subject to a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment in the county jail for not more than 60 days, but if that person has never been licensed to drive in this State or any other jurisdiction, the applicant shall be subject to a fine of not less than $200 and, in addition, the court shall issue an order to the commission requiring the commission to refuse to issue a license to operate a motor vehicle to the person for a period of not less than 180 days.  The penalties provided for by this paragraph shall not be applicable in cases where failure to have actual possession of the operator's license is due to an administrative or technical error by the commission.

     Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter or extend the expiration of any license issued prior to the date this amendatory and supplementary act becomes operative.

(cf: P.L.2015, c.78, s.1)

 

     10.  Section 12 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.20) is amended to read as follows: 

     12.  a. In addition to the imposition of any other penalty provided by law, the chief administrator shall suspend for not less than one year nor more than three years the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person convicted for a first violation of: 

     (1)   R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) if the motor vehicle was a commercial motor vehicle or section 5 of this act.

     (2)   R.S.39:4-129 if the motor vehicle was a commercial motor vehicle operated by the person.

     (3)   Using a commercial motor vehicle in the commission of any "crime" as defined in subsection a., c., or d. of N.J.S.2C:1-4. 

     (4)   Refusal to submit to a chemical test under section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) or section 16 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.24) if the motor vehicle was a commercial motor vehicle.

     (5)   Paragraph (1) of subsection b. of section 10 of this act.

     (6)   A violation, arising in connection with a fatal accident, of State or local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, regardless of whether the motor vehicle operated by the person was a commercial motor vehicle or a non-commercial motor vehicle.

     b.    If a first violation of any of the violations specified in subsection a. of this section takes place while transporting hazardous material or takes place in a vehicle displaying a hazardous material placard, the chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of the person for three years.

     c.     Subject to the provisions of subsection d. of this section, the chief administrator shall revoke for life the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a second or subsequent violation of any of the offenses specified in  subsections a. and j. of this section or any combination of those offenses arising from two or more separate incidents.

     d.    The chief administrator may issue rules and regulations establishing guidelines, including conditions under which a revocation of commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for life under subsection c. may be reduced to a period of not less than 10 years.

     e.     Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the chief administrator shall revoke for life the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person who uses a commercial motor vehicle or a non-commercial motor vehicle in the commission of a crime involving the manufacture, distribution, or dispensing of a controlled substance or controlled substance analog, or possession with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled substance or controlled substance analog.  A revocation under this subsection shall not be subject to reduction in accordance with subsection d. of this section.

     f.     (1) The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 60 days if the person is convicted of a serious traffic violation, other than a violation arising in connection with a fatal accident as set forth in paragraph (6) of  subsection a. of this section, and that conviction constitutes the second serious traffic violation committed in a commercial motor vehicle or non-commercial motor vehicle in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within a three-year period.  The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for 120 days if the conviction constitutes the third or subsequent serious traffic violation, other than a violation arising in connection with a fatal accident as set forth in paragraph (6) of subsection a. of this section, committed in a commercial motor vehicle or non-commercial motor vehicle in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within a three-year period.

     (2)   The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 60 days if the person is convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-128; section 68 of P.L.1951, c.23 (C.39:4-127.1); or section 10 of P.L.2005, c.147 (C.39:4-128.11).  The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for not less than 120 days if the conviction constitutes the second violation of R.S.39:4-128; section 68 of P.L.1951, c.23 (C.39:4-127.1); section 10 of P.L.2005, c.147 (C.39:4-128.11) or any combination of such violations in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within a three-year period.  The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for not less than one year if the conviction constitutes the third or subsequent violation of R.S.39:4-128; section 68 of P.L.1951, c.23 (C.39:4-127.1); section 10 of P.L.2005, c.147 (C.39:4-128.11) or any combination of such violations in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within the past three years.

     (3)   The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 180 days or more than one year if the person is convicted of violating a driver, commercial motor vehicle, or motor carrier operation out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting nonhazardous materials.  The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than  two years or more than five years if the conviction constitutes the second conviction in a separate incident in this or any other state within a 10-year period of violating a driver, commercial motor vehicle, or motor carrier operation out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting nonhazardous materials.  The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than three years or more than five years if the conviction constitutes the third or subsequent conviction in a separate incident in this or any other state within a 10-year period of violating a driver, commercial motor vehicle, or motor carrier operation out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting nonhazardous materials.

     (4)   The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 180 days or more than two years if the person is convicted of violating a driver, commercial motor vehicle, or motor carrier operation out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting hazardous materials required to be placarded under Subpart F of 49 C.F.R. s.172, or while operating a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.  The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than three years or more than five years if the conviction constitutes a second or subsequent conviction in a separate incident within a 10-year period in this or any other state of violating a driver, commercial motor vehicle, or motor carrier operation out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting hazardous materials required to be placarded under Subpart F of  49 C.F.R. s.172, or while operating a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

     g.    A court shall make a report to the chief administrator within three days in such form as the chief administrator may require concerning conviction for violation of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.9 et seq.).  The chief administrator shall notify the Commercial Driver License Information System of the suspension, revocation, or cancellation.  In the case of non-residents, the chief administrator also shall notify the licensing authority of the state which issued the commercial driver license or the state where the person is domiciled.  The chief administrator shall provide these notices within 10 days after the suspension, revocation, cancellation, or disqualification.

     h.    The chief administrator shall in accordance with this section suspend a commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person holding, or required to hold, a commercial driver license issued by this State if the person is convicted in another state or foreign jurisdiction of an offense of a substantially similar nature to the offenses specified in subsection a., e., f., g., h., i. or j. of this section.  For purposes of this section, a violation such as driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence, or driving while ability is impaired shall be considered substantially similar offenses.  For purposes of this section, a violation committed in another state but substantially similar to those enumerated in subsection a., e., f., g., h., i. or j. of this section committed in this State shall be included.

     i.     Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a conviction under this section, or section 5 or 16 of this act, shall not merge with a conviction for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2).

     j.     In addition to any other penalty provided by law, the chief administrator shall suspend for one year the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a first violation of:

     (1)   R.S.39:4-50 while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle;

     (2)   R.S.39:4-129 while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle;

     (3)   Refusing to submit to a chemical test under section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle; or

     (4)   Using a non-commercial motor vehicle in the commission of any "crime" as defined in subsection a., c., or d. of N.J.S.2C:1-4.

     k.    The chief administrator shall in accordance with this section suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person holding, or required to hold, a commercial driver license issued by this State if that person has been disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration pursuant to 49 C.F.R. s.383.52 because that person's driving has been determined to constitute an imminent hazard.

     l.     The Motor Vehicle Commission shall maintain records of accidents, convictions, and disqualification for persons holding, or required to hold, a commercial driver license in accordance with 49 C.F.R. s.384.225 and the AAMVAnet, Inc.'s "Commercial Driver License Information System State Procedures," as amended and supplemented.

     m.   Any driver who is found to be in violation of the provisions of paragraph (a) or (b) of 49 C.F.R. s.392.5, relating to the use of alcohol, being under the influence of alcohol, having any measured alcohol concentration or detected presence of alcohol, or possessing alcohol, shall be placed out-of-service immediately for a period of 24 hours.

(cf:  P.L.2009, c.271, s.3) 

 

     11.  Section 16 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.24) is amended to read as follows: 

     16.  a.  A person who operates a commercial motor vehicle on a public road, street, or highway, or quasi-public area in this State, shall be deemed to have given his consent to the taking of samples of his breath for the purposes of making chemical tests to determine alcohol concentration; provided, however, that the taking of samples shall be made in accordance with the provisions of this act and at the request of a police officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that the person has been operating a commercial motor vehicle with an alcohol concentration of 0.04% or more. 

     b.    A record of the taking of such a sample, disclosing the date and time thereof, as well as the result of a chemical test, shall be made and a copy thereof, upon request, shall be furnished or made available to the person so tested. 

     c.     In addition to the samples taken and tests made at the direction of a police officer hereunder, the person tested shall be permitted to have such samples taken and chemical tests of his breath, urine, or blood made by a person or physician of his own selection. 

     d.    The police officer shall inform the person tested of his rights under subsections b. and c. of this section. 

     e.     No chemical test, as provided in this section, or specimen necessary thereto, may be made or taken forcibly and against physical resistance thereto by the defendant.  The police officer shall, however, inform the person arrested of the consequences of refusing to submit to such test including the penalties under section 12 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.20).  A standard statement, prepared by the [director] chief administrator, shall be read by the police officer to the person. 

     f.     The court shall revoke for six months the right to operate any motor vehicle of any person who, after being arrested for a violation of section 5 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13), shall refuse to submit to the chemical test provided for in this section when requested to do so, unless the refusal was in connection with a subsequent offense under this section, section 5 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13), R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), in which case the revocation period shall be for two years.  In addition, a court shall impose the penalties provided in section 12 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.20)

     The court shall determine by a preponderance of the evidence whether the arresting officer had probable cause to believe that the person had been operating or was in actual physical control of a commercial motor vehicle on the public highways or quasi-public areas of this State with an alcohol concentration at 0.04% or more, whether the person was placed under arrest, whether he refused to submit to the test upon request of the officer, and if these elements of the violation are not established, no conviction shall issue.  In addition to any other requirements provided by law, a person whose driving privilege is revoked for refusing to submit to a chemical test shall satisfy the requirements of a program of alcohol education or rehabilitation pursuant to the provisions of R.S.39:4-50. The revocation shall be independent of any revocation imposed by virtue of a conviction under the provisions of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 12 of [this act] P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.20)

     In addition to imposing a revocation under this subsection, a court shall impose a fine of not less than $250 or more than $500. 

(cf: P.L.1990, c.103, s.16) 

 

     12.  Section 6 of P.L.2003, c.66 (C.39:3-10.32) is amended to read as follows:   

     6.    In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a school bus driver who violates section 5 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13) or section 16 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.24) while transporting school children shall be guilty of a disorderly persons offense.

     Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a conviction under this section shall not merge with a conviction for a violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), section 5 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13) or section 16 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.24).

(cf:  P.L.2003, c.66, s.6)

 

     13.  R.S.39:3-13 is amended to read as follows: 

     39:3-13. The chief administrator may, in the chief administrator's discretion, issue to a person over 17 years of age an examination permit, under the hand and seal of the chief administrator, allowing such person, for the purpose of fitting the person to become a licensed driver, to operate a designated class of motor vehicles other than passenger automobiles and motorcycles for a specified period of not more than 90 days, while in the company and under the supervision of a driver licensed to operate such designated class of motor vehicles.

     The chief administrator, in the chief administrator's discretion, may issue for a specified period of not less than one year a passenger automobile or motorcycle-only examination permit to a person over 17 years of age regardless of whether a person has completed a course of behind-the-wheel automobile driving education pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1950, c.127 (C.39:3-13.1).  An examination permit applicant who is under 18 years of age shall obtain the signature of a parent or guardian for submission to the commission on a form prescribed by the chief administrator.  The chief administrator shall postpone for six months the driving privileges of any person who submits a fraudulent signature for a parent or guardian.

     For six months immediately following the validation of an examination permit, and until the holder passes the road test, the holder who is less than 21 years of age shall operate the passenger automobile only when accompanied by, and under the supervision of, a New Jersey licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age and has been licensed to drive a passenger automobile for not less than three years. The holder of an examination permit who is at least 21 years of age shall operate the passenger automobile for the first three months under such supervision and until the holder passes the road test. The supervising driver of the passenger automobile shall sit in the front seat of the vehicle. Whenever operating a vehicle while in possession of an examination permit, the holder of the permit shall operate the passenger automobile with only one additional passenger in the vehicle excluding dependents of the permit holder, except that this passenger restriction shall not apply when the permit holder is at least 21 years of age or when the permit holder is accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Further, the holder of the passenger automobile permit who is less than 21 years of age shall not drive during the hours between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m.; provided, however, that this condition may be waived for an emergency which, in the judgment of local police, is of sufficient severity and magnitude to substantially endanger the health, safety, welfare, or property of a person, or for any bona fide employment or religion-related activity if the employer or appropriate religious authority provides written verification of such activity in a manner provided for by the chief administrator.  The holder of the examination permit shall not use any hand-held or hands-free interactive wireless communication device, except in an emergency, while operating a moving passenger automobile on a public road or highway.  "Use" shall include, but not be limited to, talking or listening on any hand-held or hands-free interactive wireless communication device or operating its keys, buttons, or other controls. The passenger automobile permit holder shall ensure that all occupants of the vehicle are secured in a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt or child restraint system.

     The holder of an examination permit subject to the provisions of section 1 of P.L.1977, c.23 (C.39:3-10b) shall not operate a motorcycle at any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise.  A motorcycle operated by the holder of an examination permit shall carry only the operator and shall not be operated on any toll road over which the New Jersey Turnpike Authority or the South Jersey Transportation Authority has jurisdiction or on any limited-access interstate highway.

     The holder of any examination permit shall not operate a motorcycle having a motor with a maximum piston displacement that is less than 50 cubic centimeters or a motor that is rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower with a maximum speed of no more than 35 miles per hour on a flat surface at anytime from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise and shall not operate the motorcycle with any other passenger.  The holder of any examination permit shall not operate such a motorcycle upon limited-access interstate highways or public roads or highways with a posted speed limit greater than 35 miles per hour.

     An applicant for an examination permit subject to the provisions of section 1 of P.L.1977, c.23 (C.39:3-10b), who is less than 18 years of age, shall be required to successfully complete a motorcycle safety education course established pursuant to the provisions of section 1 of P.L.1991, c.452 (C.27:5F-36) as a condition for obtaining a motorcycle license or endorsement.

     The chief administrator shall provide the holder of an examination permit with two removable, transferable, highly visible, reflective decals indicating that the driver of the vehicle may be the holder of an examination permit.  The decals shall be designed by the chief administrator, in consultation with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety.  The chief administrator may charge a fee for the decals not to exceed the actual cost of producing and distributing the decals.  The decals shall be displayed in a manner prescribed by the chief administrator, in consultation with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety, and shall be clearly visible to law enforcement officers.  The holder of an examination permit shall not operate a vehicle unless the decals are displayed.  The decal shall be removed once the driver's examination permit period has ended.

     When notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that an examination permit holder has been convicted of a violation which causes the permit holder to accumulate more than two motor vehicle points or has been convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-50; section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill); section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a); P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14); R.S.39:4-129; N.J.S.2C:11-5; subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1; or any other motor vehicle-related law the chief administrator deems significant and applicable pursuant to regulation, in addition to any other penalty that may be imposed, the chief administrator shall, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, suspend the examination permit holder's examination permit for 90 days.  The chief administrator shall restore the permit following the term of the permit suspension if the permit holder satisfactorily completes a remedial training course of not less than four hours which may be given by the commission, a driving school licensed by the chief administrator pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1951, c.216 (C.39:12-2), or any Statewide safety organization approved by the chief administrator.  The course shall be subject to oversight by the commission according to its guidelines.  The permit holder shall also remit a course fee prior to the commencement of the course. The chief administrator also shall postpone without the exercise of discretion or a hearing the issuance of a basic license for 90 days if the chief administrator is notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that the examination permit holder, after completion of the remedial training course, has been convicted of any motor vehicle violation which results in the imposition of any motor vehicle points or has been convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-50; section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill); section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a); P.L.1992, c.182 (C.39:4-50.14); R.S.39:4-129; N.J.S.2C:11-5, subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1 or any other motor vehicle-related law the chief administrator deems significant and applicable pursuant to regulation.  When the chief administrator is notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that an examination permit holder has been convicted of any alcohol or drug-related offense unrelated to the operation of a motor vehicle and is not otherwise subject to any other suspension penalty therefor, the chief administrator shall, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, suspend the examination permit for six months.

     An examination permit for a motorcycle or a commercial motor vehicle issued to a handicapped person, as determined by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission after consultation with the Department of Education, shall be valid for nine months or until the completion of the road test portion of his license examination, whichever period is shorter.

     Each permit shall be sufficient license for the person to operate such designated class of motor vehicles in this State during the period specified, while in the company of and under the control of a driver licensed by this State to operate such designated class of motor vehicles, or, in the case of a commercial driver license permit, while in the company of and under the control of a holder of a valid commercial driver license for the appropriate license class and with the appropriate endorsements issued by this or any other state. Such person, as well as the licensed driver, except for a motor vehicle examiner administering a driving skills test, shall be held accountable for all violations of this subtitle committed by such person while in the presence of the licensed driver.  In addition to requiring an applicant for an examination permit to submit satisfactory proof of identity and age, the chief administrator also shall require the applicant to provide, as a condition for obtaining the permit, satisfactory proof that the applicant's presence in the United States is authorized under federal law.  If the chief administrator has reasonable cause to suspect that any document presented by an applicant as proof of identity, age, or legal residency is altered, false, or otherwise invalid, the chief administrator shall refuse to grant the permit until such time as the document may be verified by the issuing agency to the chief administrator's satisfaction.

     The holder of an examination permit shall be required to take a road test in order to obtain a probationary license. No road test for any person who has been issued an examination permit to operate a passenger vehicle shall be given unless the person has met the requirements of this section.  No road test for a probationary license shall be given unless the applicant has first secured an examination permit and no such road test shall be scheduled for an applicant who has secured an examination permit for a passenger vehicle or a motorcycle for which an endorsement is not required until at least six months for an applicant under 21 years of age or three months for an applicant 21 years of age or older shall have elapsed following the validation of the examination permit for practice driving or, in the case of an examination permit for other vehicles, until 20 days have elapsed. In the case of an omnibus endorsement or school bus, no road test shall be scheduled until at least 10 days shall have elapsed. Every applicant for an examination permit to qualify for an omnibus endorsement or an articulated vehicle endorsement shall be a holder of a valid basic driver's license.

     The required fees for special learner's permits and examination permits shall be as follows:

Basic driver's license...............................................up to $10

Motorcycle license or endorsement..................................$  5

Omnibus or school bus endorsement................................$25

     The chief administrator shall waive the payment of fees for issuance of examination permits for omnibus endorsements whenever the applicant establishes to the chief administrator's satisfaction that said applicant will use the omnibus endorsement exclusively for operating omnibuses owned by a nonprofit organization duly incorporated under Title 15 or 16 of the Revised Statutes or Title 15A of the New Jersey Statutes.

     The specified period for which a permit is issued may be extended for not more than an additional 60 days, without payment of an added fee, upon application made by the holder thereof, where the holder has applied to take the examination for a driver's license prior to the expiration of the original period for which the permit was issued and the chief administrator was unable to schedule an examination during said period.

     As a condition for the issuance of an examination permit under this section, the chief administrator shall secure a digitized picture of the applicant.  The picture shall be stored in a manner prescribed by the chief administrator and may be displayed on the examination permit.

     The chief administrator may require that whenever a person to whom an examination permit has been issued has reconstructive or cosmetic surgery which significantly alters the person's facial features, the person shall notify the chief administrator who may require the picture of the person to be updated.

     Specific use of the examination permit and any information stored or encoded, electronically or otherwise, in relation thereto shall be in accordance with P.L.1997, c.188 (C.39:2-3.3 et seq.) and the federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act of 1994, Pub.L.103-322.  Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary, the digitized picture or any access thereto or any use thereof shall not be sold, leased, or exchanged for value.

(cf:  P.L.2011, c.13, s.3)

 

     14.  Section 6 of P.L.1977, c.25 (C.39:3-13.2a) is amended to read as follows:   

     6.    a.  Any person to whom a special learner's permit has been issued pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1950, c.127 (C.39:3-13.1), upon successful completion of a State approved written examination, eye examination, and an approved minimum six-hour behind-the-wheel driving course, shall be entitled to retain the special learner's permit in his own possession.  The special learner's permit shall be validated by the commission for the purpose of driving a motor vehicle on a public highway in this State after the holder has successfully met the necessary examination requirements, and upon the successful completion of a behind-the-wheel driving course. Such person may operate a motor vehicle of the class for which a basic driver's license is required except during the hours between 11:01 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. while in the company and under the supervision, from the front passenger seat, of a licensed motor vehicle driver of this State who is over 21 years of age and has been licensed to drive a passenger automobile for at least three years. Such special permit shall be valid until such person's seventeenth birthday or until he qualifies for a probationary license. Except during an instructional period of a behind-the-wheel driving course, the holder of a special permit shall operate a passenger automobile with only the following passengers:  (1) the supervising passenger; (2) any parent, guardian, or dependent of the special permit holder; and (3) one additional passenger.  The holder of the special learner's permit shall not use any hand-held or hands-free interactive wireless communication device, except in an emergency, while operating a moving passenger automobile on a public road or highway.  "Use" shall include, but not be limited to, talking or listening on any hand-held or hands-free interactive wireless communication device or operating its keys, buttons, or other controls. All occupants of the automobile shall be secured in a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt or child restraint system.

     The chief administrator shall provide the holder of a special learner's permit with two removable, transferable, highly visible, reflective decals indicating that the driver of the vehicle may be the holder of a special learner's permit.  The decals shall be designed by the chief administrator, in consultation with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety.  The chief administrator may charge a fee for the decals not to exceed the actual cost of producing and distributing the decals.  The decals shall be displayed in a manner prescribed by the chief administrator, in consultation with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety, and shall be clearly visible to law enforcement officers.  The holder of a special learner's permit shall not operate a vehicle unless the decals are displayed.  The decal shall be removed once the driver's special learner's permit period has ended. 

     b.    When notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that a special learner's permit holder has been convicted of a violation which causes the permit holder to accumulate more than two motor vehicle points or has been convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-50; section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill); section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a); P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14); R.S.39:4-129; N.J.S.2C:11-5; subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1; or any other motor vehicle-related law the chief administrator determines to be significant and applicable pursuant to regulation, and in addition to any other penalty that may be imposed, the chief administrator shall, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, suspend the holder's special learner's permit for 90 days.  The chief administrator shall restore the permit following the term of the permit suspension if the permit holder, regardless of age, satisfactorily completes a remedial training course of not less than four hours which may be given by the commission, a driving school licensed by the chief administrator pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1951, c.216 (C.39:12-2), or any Statewide safety organization approved by the chief administrator.  The course shall be administered pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the chief administrator and subject to oversight by the commission.  The authority of the chief administrator to suspend, revoke, or deny issuance of an initial or renewal license to operate a driving school or an instructor's license, and to assess fines, pursuant to P.L.1951, c.216 (C.39:12-1 et seq.) shall apply to any violations related to the administration of a remedial training course.  The permit holder shall also remit a course fee prior to the commencement of the course.  If, after completion of the remedial training course, the chief administrator is notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that the special learner's permit holder has been convicted of any motor vehicle violation which results in the imposition of any motor vehicle points or has been convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-50; section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill); section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a); P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14); R.S.39:4-129; N.J.S.2C:11-5; subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1; or any other motor vehicle-related law the chief administrator deems significant and applicable pursuant to regulation, the chief administrator, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, shall also postpone the issuance of a basic license for 90 days.  When the chief administrator is notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that a special learner's permit holder has been convicted of any alcohol or drug-related offense unrelated to the operation of a motor vehicle and he is not otherwise subject to any other suspension penalty therefor, the chief administrator shall, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, suspend the special learner's permit for six months.

(cf:  P.L.2009, c.38, s.8)

 

     15.  Section 4 of P.L.1950, c.127 (C.39:3-13.4) is amended to read as follows: 

     4.    a.  The holder of a special learner's permit shall be entitled to a probationary driver's license (1) upon attaining the age of 17 years, (2) upon the satisfactory completion of an approved behind-the-wheel driver training course as indicated upon the face of the special permit over the signature of the principal of the school or the person operating the driving school in which the course was conducted, (3) upon the completion of six months' driving experience with a validated special learner's permit in compliance with the provisions of section 6 of P.L.1977, c.25 (C.39:3-13.2a), and (4) upon passing the road test pursuant to R.S.39:3-10.

     b.    The holder of a probationary license shall be permitted to operate the passenger automobile with only one additional passenger in the vehicle besides any dependent of the probationary license holder, except that this passenger restriction shall not apply when the holder of the probationary license is at least 21 years of age or the probationary license holder is accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Further, the holder of the probationary license who is under 21 years of age shall not drive during the hours between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m.; provided however, that this condition may be waived for an emergency which, in the judgment of local police, is of sufficient severity and magnitude to substantially endanger the health, safety, welfare, or property of a person or for any bona fide employment or religion-related activity if the employer or appropriate religious authority provides written verification of such activity in a manner provided for by the chief administrator.

     c.     The holder of the probationary license shall not use any hand-held or hands-free interactive wireless communication device, except in an emergency, while operating a moving passenger automobile on a public road or highway.  "Use" shall include, but not be limited to, talking or listening on any hand-held or hands-free interactive wireless communication device or operating its keys, buttons, or other controls. In addition, the holder of the probationary license shall ensure that all occupants of the vehicle are secured in a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt or child restraint system.

     d.    In addition to any other penalties provided under law, the holder of a probationary license who accumulates more than two motor vehicle points or is convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-50;  section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill); section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a); P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14); R.S.39:4-129; N.J.S.2C:11-5; subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1; or any other motor vehicle law the chief administrator deems to be significant and applicable pursuant to regulation shall, for the first violation, be required to satisfactorily complete a remedial training course of not less than four hours which may be given by the commission, a driving school licensed by the chief administrator pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1951, c.216 (C.39:12-2), or any Statewide safety organization approved by the chief administrator.  The course shall be administered pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the chief administrator and subject to oversight by the commission.  The authority of the chief administrator to suspend, revoke, or deny issuance of an initial or renewal license to operate a driving school or an instructor's license, and to assess fines, pursuant to P.L.1951, c.216 (C.39:12-1 et seq.) shall apply to any violations related to the administration of a remedial training course.  The license holder shall also remit a course fee prior to the commencement of the course.

     e.     When notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that a probationary license holder has been convicted of a second or subsequent violation, in addition to any other penalties provided under law, the chief administrator shall, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, suspend the probationary license for three months, and shall postpone eligibility for a basic license for an equivalent period.  In addition, when the chief administrator is notified by a court of competent jurisdiction that a probationary license holder has been convicted of any alcohol or drug-related offense unrelated to the operation of a motor vehicle, and he is not otherwise subject to any other suspension penalty therefor, the chief administrator shall, without the exercise of discretion or a hearing, suspend the probationary license for six months.

     f.     The chief administrator shall provide the holder of a probationary license with two removable, transferable, highly visible, reflective decals indicating that the driver of the vehicle may be the holder of a probationary license.  The decals shall be designed by the chief administrator, in consultation with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety.  The chief administrator may charge a fee for the decals not to exceed the actual cost of producing and distributing the decals.  The decals shall be displayed in a manner prescribed by the chief administrator, in consultation with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety, and shall be clearly visible to law enforcement officers.  The holder of a  probationary license shall not operate a vehicle unless the decals are displayed.  The decal shall be removed once the driver's probationary license period has ended.

     g.    A probationary license may be sent by mail and shall be clearly identifiable and distinguishable in appearance from a basic license by any name, mark, color, or device deemed appropriate by the chief administrator.

(cf:  P.L.2009, c.38, s.9)

 

     16.  Section 3 of P.L.1959, c.56 (C.39:3-33.5) is amended to read as follows:

     3.    Except as provided for courtesy marks in section 2 of P.L.2000, c.15 (C.39:3-33.5a), no particular identifying mark or special organization license plate issued pursuant to P.L.1987, c.374 (C.39:3-27.35) may be issued to any applicant who:

     (a)   for the 10-year period next preceding the date of application for a particular identifying mark or special organization license plate has been convicted of a violation of either [section] R.S. 39:4-50, [or section] , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), R.S. 39:4-96 [of this Title] , or section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) or has been convicted of a violation of a law of a substantially similar nature in another jurisdiction; or

     (b)   has been convicted of a violation of N.J.S.2C:11-5; or

     (c)   for the two-year period next preceding his application for a particular identifying mark or a special organization license plate has had his driving privileges in this State or in another jurisdiction revoked or suspended for any reason whatsoever.

(cf:  P.L.2000, c.15, s.1) 

 

     17.  R.S.39:3-40 is amended to read as follows: 

     39:3-40.  No person to whom a driver's license has been refused or whose driver's license or reciprocity privilege has been suspended or revoked, or who has been prohibited from obtaining a driver's license, shall personally operate a motor vehicle during the period of refusal, suspension, revocation, or prohibition.

     No person whose motor vehicle registration has been revoked shall operate or permit the operation of such motor vehicle during the period of such revocation.

     Except as provided in subsections i. and j. of this section, a person violating this section shall be subject to the following penalties:

     a.     Upon conviction for a first offense, a fine of [$500.00] $500 and, if that offense involves the operation of a motor vehicle during a period when the violator's driver's license is suspended for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), revocation of the violator's motor vehicle registration privilege in accordance with the provisions of sections 2 through 6 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.1 through C.39:3-40.5);

     b.    Upon conviction for a second offense, a fine of [$750.00] $750, imprisonment in the county jail for at least one but not more than five days and, if the second offense involves the operation of a motor vehicle during a period when the violator's driver's license is suspended and that second offense occurs within five years of a conviction for that same offense, revocation of the violator's motor vehicle registration privilege in accordance with the provisions of sections 2 through 6 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.1 through C.39:3-40.5);

     c.     Upon conviction for a third offense or subsequent offense, a fine of [$1,000.00] $1,000 and imprisonment in the county jail for 10 days. If the third or a subsequent offense involves the operation of a motor vehicle during a period when the violator's driver's license is suspended and the third or subsequent offense occurs within five years of a conviction for the same offense, revocation of the violator's motor vehicle registration privilege in accordance with the provisions of sections 2 through 6 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.1 through C.39:3-40.5);

     d.    Upon conviction, the court shall impose or extend a period of suspension not to exceed six months;

     e.     Upon conviction, the court shall impose a period of imprisonment for not less than 45 days or more than 180 days, if while operating a vehicle in violation of this section a person is involved in an accident resulting in bodily injury to another person;

     f.     (1) In addition to any penalty imposed under the provisions of subsections a. through e. of this section, any person violating this section while under suspension issued pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1972, c.197 (C.39:6B-2), upon conviction, shall be fined [$500.00] $500, shall have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for an additional period of not less than one year nor more than two years, and may be imprisoned in the county jail for not more than 90 days.

     (2)   In addition to any penalty imposed under the provisions of subsections a. through e. of this section and paragraph (1) of this subsection, any person violating this section under suspension issued pursuant to R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) or P.L.1982, c.85 (C.39:5-30a et seq.), shall be fined $500, shall have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for an additional period of not less than one year or more than two years, and shall be imprisoned in the county jail for not less than 10 days or more than 90 days.

     (3)   In addition to any penalty imposed under the provisions of subsections a. through e. of this section and paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, a person shall have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for an additional period of not less than one year or more than two years, which period shall commence upon the completion of any prison sentence imposed upon that person, shall be fined $500 and shall be imprisoned for a period of 60 to 90 days for a first offense, imprisoned for a period of 120 to 150 days for a second offense, and imprisoned for 180 days for a third or subsequent offense, for operating a motor vehicle while in violation of paragraph (2) of this subsection while:

     (a)   on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of such school property;

     (b)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 if the municipality, by ordinance or resolution, has designated the school crossing as such; or

     (c)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 knowing that juveniles are present if the municipality has not designated the school crossing as such by ordinance or resolution.

     A map or true copy of a map depicting the location and boundaries of the area on or within 1,000 feet of any property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board produced pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1987, c.101 (C.2C:35-7) may be used in a prosecution under subparagraph (a) of this paragraph.

     It shall not be relevant to the imposition of sentence pursuant to subparagraph (a) or (b) of this paragraph that the defendant was unaware that the prohibited conduct took place while on or within 1,000 feet of any school property or while driving through a school crossing.  Nor shall it be relevant to the imposition of sentence that no juveniles were present on the school property or crossing zone at the time of the offense or that the school was not in session;

     g.    (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2009, c.224);

     h.    A person who owns or leases a motor vehicle and permits another to operate the motor vehicle commits a violation and is subject to suspension of his license to operate a motor vehicle and to revocation of registration pursuant to sections 2 through 6 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.1 through C.39:3-40.5) if the person: 

     (1)   Knows that the operator's license or reciprocity privilege to operate a motor vehicle has been suspended for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a); or

     (2)   Knows that the operator's license or reciprocity privilege to operate a motor vehicle is suspended and that the operator has been convicted, within the past five years, of operating a vehicle while the person's license was suspended or revoked.

     In any case where a person who owns or leases a motor vehicle knows that the operator's license or reciprocity privilege of the person he permits to operate the motor vehicle is suspended or revoked for any violation of R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.    ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), the person also shall be subject to the following penalties: for a first or second offense, a fine of $1,000, imprisonment for not more than 15 days, or both; and for a third or subsequent offense, a fine of $1,000, imprisonment for not more than 15 days, or both, and forfeiture of the right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for a period of 90 days;

     i.     If the violator's driver's license to operate a motor vehicle has been suspended pursuant to section 9 of P.L.1985, c.14 (C.39:4-139.10) or for failure to comply with a time payment order, the violator shall be subject to a maximum fine of $100 upon proof that the violator has paid all fines and other assessments related to the parking violation that were the subject of the Order of Suspension, or if the violator makes sufficient payments to become current with respect to payment obligations under the time payment order;

     j.     If a person is convicted for a second or subsequent violation of this section and the second or subsequent offense involves a motor vehicle moving violation, the term of imprisonment for the second or subsequent offense shall be 10 days longer than the term of imprisonment imposed for the previous offense.

     For the purposes of this subsection, a "motor vehicle moving violation" means any violation of the motor vehicle laws of this State for which motor vehicle points are assessed by the chief administrator pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1982, c.43 (C.39:5-30.5).

(cf:  P.L.2009, c.332, s.1)

 

     18.  Section 2 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.1) is amended to read as follows:

     2.  a.  Any motor vehicle registration certificate and registration plates shall be revoked if a person is convicted of violating the provisions of:

     (1)   subsection a. of R.S.39:3-40 for operating a motor vehicle during a period when that violator's driver's license has been suspended for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill); or

     (2)   subsection b. or c. of R.S.39:3-40 for operating a motor vehicle during a period when that violator's driver's license has been suspended within a five-year period.

     (3)   (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2009, c.201).

     This revocation of registration certificate and registration plates shall apply to all passenger automobiles and motorcycles owned or leased by the violator and registered under the provisions of R.S.39:3-4 and all noncommercial trucks owned or leased by the violator and registered under the provisions of section 2 of P.L.1968, c.439 (C.39:3-8.1), including those passenger automobiles, motorcycles and noncommercial trucks registered or leased jointly in the name of the violator and the other owner of record.

     b.    At the time of conviction, the court shall notify each violator that the person's passenger automobile, motorcycle, and noncommercial truck registrations are revoked.  Notwithstanding the provisions of R.S.39:5-35, the violator shall surrender the registration certificate and registration plates of all passenger automobiles, motorcycles, and noncommercial truck registrations subject to revocation under the provisions of this section within 48 hours of the court's notice.  The surrender shall be at a place and in a manner prescribed by the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission pursuant to rule and regulation.  The court also shall notify the violator that a failure to surrender that vehicle registration certificate and registration plates shall result in the impoundment of the vehicle in accordance with the provisions of section 4 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.3) and the seizure of said registration certificate and registration plates.  The revocation authorized under the provisions of this subsection shall remain in effect for the period during which the violator's license to operate a motor vehicle is suspended and shall be enforced so as to prohibit the violator from registering or leasing any other vehicle, however acquired, during that period.

     c.     If the violator subject to the penalties set forth in subsections a. and b. of this section for conviction of violating the provisions of R.S.39:3-40 was operating a motor vehicle owned or leased by another person and that other owner or lessee permitted that operation with knowledge that the violator's driver's license was suspended, the court shall suspend the person's license to operate a motor vehicle and revoke the registration certificate and registration plates for that vehicle for a period of not more than six months. Notwithstanding the provisions of R.S.39:3-35, the owner or lessee shall surrender the registration certificate and registration plates of that vehicle within 48 hours of the court's notice of revocation.  The surrender shall be at a place and in a manner prescribed by the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission pursuant to rule and regulation.  The court also shall notify the owner or lessee that a failure to surrender the revoked registration certificate and registration plates shall result in the impoundment of the vehicle in accordance with the provisions of section 4 of P.L.1995, c.286 (C.39:3-40.3) and the seizure of said registration certificate and registration plates.  Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit the court from finding that owner or lessee guilty of violating R.S.39:3-39 or any other such statute concerning the operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver.

(cf: P.L.2009, c.201, s.4)

 

     19.  Section 1 of P.L.1938, c.360 (C.39:4-9.1) is amended to read as follows:

     1.    Whenever another [State] state shall have enacted a law providing for reciprocal exchange thereof, the [director] chief administrator, upon receiving a certificate of conviction of a  nonresident operator or chauffeur of a violation of the provisions of [sections] R.S.39:4-50, R.S.39:4-96, R.S.39:4-98 and R.S.39:4-129 [of the Revised Statutes], section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or of notice of  the forfeiture of any bond or collateral given for such violation, shall  transmit forthwith, a certified copy of such record to the motor vehicle  administrator of the [State] state wherein the person named in such record shall  reside.

(cf: P.L.1951, c.23, s.10)

 

     20.  Section 1 of P.L.1981, c.97 (C.39:4-14.3g) is amended to read as follows:

     1.    It is unlawful for any person to operate a motorized bicycle while under the  influence of intoxicating liquor, or a narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug.  Any person who violates the provisions of this act shall  be subject to the same penalties as provided in R.S. 39:4-50 and section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill)  for conviction of  operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of any such substance.  In  any prosecution for a violation of this act, the presumptions, consent and  procedures set forth in [P.L.1951, c. 23, s. 30 (C. 39:4-50.1) and P.L.1966, c.  142, ss. 2-5 (C. 39:4-50.2 to 39:4-50.5)] , section 2 and section 3 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C. 39:4-50.2 and C.39:4-50.3), section 5 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.5), section 3 of P.L.2004, c.8 (C.39:4-50.2a), and section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) shall be applicable.

(cf: P.L.1971, c.97, s.1)

 

     21.  R.S.39:4-50 is amended to read as follows:

     39:4-50.  (a)  Except as provided in subsection (g) of this section, a person who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant's blood or permits another person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug to operate a motor vehicle owned by him or in his custody or control or permits another to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant's blood shall be subject:

     (1)   For the first offense:

     (i)    if the person's blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% or higher but less than 0.10%, or the person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, or the person permits another person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor to operate a motor vehicle owned by him or in his custody or control or permits another person with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher but less than 0.10% to operate a motor vehicle, to a fine of not less than $250 nor more than $400 and a period of detainment of not less than 12 hours nor more than 48 hours spent during two consecutive days of not less than six hours each day and served as prescribed by the program requirements of the Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers established under subsection (f) of this section and, in the discretion of the court, a term of imprisonment of not more than 30 days and shall forthwith forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for a period of three months;

     (ii)   if the person's blood alcohol concentration is 0.10% or higher, or the person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or the person permits another person who is under the influence of narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug to operate a motor vehicle owned by him or in his custody or control, or permits another person with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10% or more to operate a motor vehicle, to a fine of not less than $300 nor more than $500 and a period of detainment of not less than 12 hours nor more than 48 hours spent during two consecutive days of not less than six hours each day and served as prescribed by the program requirements of the Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers established under subsection (f) of this section and, in the discretion of the court, a term of imprisonment of not more than 30 days and shall forthwith forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for a period of not less than seven months nor more than one year;

     (iii)  For a first offense, a person also shall be subject to the provisions of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.16 et al.).

     (2)   For a second violation, a person shall be subject to a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $1,000, and shall be ordered by the court to perform community service for a period of 30 days, which shall be of such form and on such terms as the court shall deem appropriate under the circumstances, and shall be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than 48 consecutive hours, which shall not be suspended or served on probation, nor more than 90 days, and shall forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for a period of two years upon conviction, and, after the expiration of said period, he may make application to the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission for a license to operate a motor vehicle, which application may be granted at the discretion of the chief administrator, consistent with subsection (b) of this section.  For a second violation, a person also shall be required to install an ignition interlock device under the provisions of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.16 et al.).

     (3)   For a third or subsequent violation, a person shall be subject to [a fine of $1,000, and shall be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than 180 days in a county jail or workhouse, except that the court may lower such term for each day, not exceeding 90 days, served participating in a drug or alcohol inpatient rehabilitation program approved by the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center and shall thereafter forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for 10 years.  For a third or subsequent violation, a person also shall be required to install an ignition interlock device under the provisions of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.16 et al.)]  the penalties provided pursuant to section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill).

     As used in this section, the phrase "narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug" includes an inhalant or other substance containing a chemical capable of releasing any toxic vapors or fumes for the purpose of inducing a condition of intoxication, such as any glue, cement or any other substance containing one or more of the following chemical compounds: acetone and acetate, amyl nitrite or amyl nitrate or their isomers, benzene, butyl alcohol, butyl nitrite, butyl nitrate or their isomers, ethyl acetate, ethyl alcohol, ethyl nitrite or ethyl nitrate, ethylene dichloride, isobutyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, methyl ethyl ketone, nitrous oxide, n-propyl alcohol, pentachlorophenol, petroleum ether, propyl nitrite or propyl nitrate or their isomers, toluene, toluol or xylene or any other chemical substance capable of causing a condition of intoxication, inebriation, excitement, stupefaction or the dulling of the brain or nervous system as a result of the inhalation of the fumes or vapors of such chemical substance.

     Whenever an operator of a motor vehicle has been involved in an accident resulting in death, bodily injury or property damage, a police officer shall consider that fact along with all other facts and circumstances in determining whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that person was operating a motor vehicle in violation of this section.

     A conviction of a violation of a law of a substantially similar nature in another jurisdiction, regardless of whether that jurisdiction is a signatory to the Interstate Driver License Compact pursuant to P.L.1966, c.73 (C.39:5D-1 et seq.), shall constitute a prior conviction under this subsection unless the defendant can demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the conviction in the other jurisdiction was based exclusively upon a violation of a proscribed blood alcohol concentration of less than 0.08%.

     If the driving privilege of any person is under revocation or suspension for a violation of any provision of this Title or Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes at the time of any conviction for a violation of this section, the revocation or suspension period imposed shall commence as of the date of termination of the existing revocation or suspension period.  In the case of any person who at the time of the imposition of sentence is less than 17 years of age, the forfeiture, suspension or revocation of the driving privilege imposed by the court under this section shall commence immediately, run through the offender's seventeenth birthday and continue from that date for the period set by the court pursuant to paragraphs (1) [through (3)] or (2) of this subsection.  A court that imposes a term of imprisonment for a first or second offense under this section may sentence the person so convicted to the county jail, to the workhouse of the county wherein the offense was committed, to an inpatient rehabilitation program or to an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center or other facility approved by the chief of the Intoxicated Driving Program Unit in the Department of Health.  [For a third or subsequent offense a person shall not serve a term of imprisonment at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center as provided in subsection (f).]

     A person who has been convicted of a previous violation of this section need not be charged as a second or subsequent offender in the complaint made against him in order to render him liable to the punishment imposed by this section on a second offense, or pursuant to section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) for a subsequent [offender] offense , but if the second offense occurs more than 10 years after the first offense, the court shall treat the second conviction as a first offense for sentencing purposes [and if a third offense occurs more than 10 years after the second offense, the court shall treat the third conviction as a second offense for sentencing purposes].

     (b)   A person convicted under this section must satisfy the screening, evaluation, referral, program and fee requirements of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services' Intoxicated Driving Program Unit, and of the Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers and a program of alcohol and drug education and highway safety, as prescribed by the chief administrator.  The sentencing court shall inform the person convicted that failure to satisfy such requirements shall result in a mandatory two-day term of imprisonment in a county jail and a driver license revocation or suspension and continuation of revocation or suspension until such requirements are satisfied, unless stayed by court order in accordance with the Rules Governing the Courts of the State of New Jersey, or R.S.39:5-22.  Upon sentencing, the court shall forward to the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services' Intoxicated Driving Program Unit a copy of a person's conviction record.  A fee of $100 shall be payable to the Alcohol Education, Rehabilitation and Enforcement Fund established pursuant to section 3 of P.L.1983, c.531 (C.26:2B-32) to support the Intoxicated Driving Program Unit.

     (c)   Upon conviction of a violation of this section or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), the court shall collect forthwith the New Jersey driver's license or licenses of the person so convicted and forward such license or licenses to the chief administrator.  The court shall inform the person convicted that if he is convicted of personally operating a motor vehicle during the period of license suspension imposed pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, he shall, upon conviction, be subject to the penalties established in R.S.39:3-40. The person convicted shall be informed orally and in writing.  A person shall be required to acknowledge receipt of that written notice in writing. Failure to receive a written notice or failure to acknowledge in writing the receipt of a written notice shall not be a defense to a subsequent charge of a violation of R.S.39:3-40.  In the event that a person convicted under this section is the holder of any out-of-State driver's license, the court shall not collect the license but shall notify forthwith the chief administrator, who shall, in turn, notify appropriate officials in the licensing jurisdiction.  The court shall, however, revoke the nonresident's driving privilege to operate a motor vehicle in this State, in accordance with this section.  Upon conviction of a violation of this section, the court shall notify the person convicted, orally and in writing, of the penalties for a second, third or subsequent violation of this section.  A person shall be required to acknowledge receipt of that written notice in writing. Failure to receive a written notice or failure to acknowledge in writing the receipt of a written notice shall not be a defense to a subsequent charge of a violation of this section.

     (d)   The chief administrator shall promulgate rules and regulations pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.) in order to establish a program of alcohol education and highway safety, as prescribed by this act.

     (e)   Any person accused of a violation of this section who is liable to punishment imposed by this section as a second [or subsequent] offender shall be entitled to the same rights of discovery as allowed defendants pursuant to the Rules Governing the Courts of the State of New Jersey.

     (f)   The counties, in cooperation with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the commission, but subject to the approval of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, shall designate and establish on a county or regional basis Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers.  These centers shall have the capability of serving as community treatment referral centers and as court monitors of a person's compliance with the ordered treatment, service alternative or community service.  All centers established pursuant to this subsection shall be administered by a counselor certified by the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification Board of New Jersey or other professional with a minimum of five years' experience in the treatment of alcoholism.  All centers shall be required to develop individualized treatment plans for all persons attending the centers; provided that the duration of any ordered treatment or referral shall not exceed one year.  It shall be the center's responsibility to establish networks with the community alcohol and drug education, treatment and rehabilitation resources and to receive monthly reports from the referral agencies regarding a person's participation and compliance with the program.  Nothing in this subsection shall bar these centers from developing their own education and treatment programs; provided that they are approved by the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

     Upon a person's failure to report to the initial screening or any subsequent ordered referral, the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center shall promptly notify the sentencing court of the person's failure to comply.

     Required detention periods at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers shall be determined according to the individual treatment classification assigned by the Intoxicated Driving Program Unit. Upon attendance at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, a person shall be required to pay a per diem fee of $75 for the first offender program or a per diem fee of $100 for the second offender program, as appropriate.  Any increases in the per diem fees after the first full year shall be determined pursuant to rules and regulations adopted by the Commissioner of Health in consultation with the Governor's Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.).

     The centers shall conduct a program of alcohol and drug education and highway safety, as prescribed by the chief administrator.

     The Commissioner of Health shall adopt rules and regulations pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), in order to effectuate the purposes of this subsection.

     (g)   When a violation of this section occurs while:

     (1)   on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of such school property;

     (2)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 if the municipality, by ordinance or resolution, has designated the school crossing as such; or

     (3)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 knowing that juveniles are present if the municipality has not designated the school crossing as such by ordinance or resolution, the convicted person shall: for a first offense, be fined not less than $500 or more than $800, be imprisoned for not more than 60 days and have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for a period of not less than one year or more than two years; for a second offense, be fined not less than $1,000 or more than $2,000, perform community service for a period of 60 days, be imprisoned for not less than 96 consecutive hours, which shall not be suspended or served on probation, nor more than 180 days, except that the court may lower such term for each day, not exceeding 90 days, served performing community service in such form and on such terms as the court shall deem appropriate under the circumstances and have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for a period of four years; [and, for a third offense, be fined $2,000, imprisoned for 180 days in a county jail or workhouse, except that the court may lower such term for each day, not exceeding 90 days, served participating in a drug or alcohol inpatient rehabilitation program approved by the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for a period of 20 years;] the period of license suspension shall commence upon the completion of any prison sentence imposed upon that person.

     A map or true copy of a map depicting the location and boundaries of the area on or within 1,000 feet of any property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board produced pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1987, c.101 (C.2C:35-7) may be used in a prosecution under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

     It shall not be relevant to the imposition of sentence pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection that the defendant was unaware that the prohibited conduct took place while on or within 1,000 feet of any school property or while driving through a school crossing.  Nor shall it be relevant to the imposition of sentence that no juveniles were present on the school property or crossing zone at the time of the offense or that the school was not in session.

     (h)   A court also may order a person convicted pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, to participate in a supervised visitation program as either a condition of probation or a form of community service, giving preference to those who were under the age of 21 at the time of the offense.  Prior to ordering a person to participate in such a program, the court may consult with any person who may provide useful information on the defendant's physical, emotional and mental suitability for the visit to ensure that it will not cause any injury to the defendant.  The court also may order that the defendant participate in a counseling session under the supervision of the Intoxicated Driving Program Unit prior to participating in the supervised visitation program.  The supervised visitation program shall be at one or more of the following facilities which have agreed to participate in the program under the supervision of the facility's personnel and the probation department:

     (1)   a trauma center, critical care center or acute care hospital having basic emergency services, which receives victims of motor vehicle accidents for the purpose of observing appropriate victims of drunk drivers and victims who are, themselves, drunk drivers;

     (2)   a facility which cares for advanced alcoholics or drug abusers, to observe persons in the advanced stages of alcoholism or drug abuse; or

     (3)   if approved by a county medical examiner, the office of the county medical examiner or a public morgue to observe appropriate victims of vehicle accidents involving drunk drivers.

     As used in this section, "appropriate victim" means a victim whose condition is determined by the facility's supervisory personnel and the probation officer to be appropriate for demonstrating the results of accidents involving drunk drivers without being unnecessarily gruesome or traumatic to the defendant.

     If at any time before or during a visitation the facility's supervisory personnel and the probation officer determine that the visitation may be or is traumatic or otherwise inappropriate for that defendant, the visitation shall be terminated without prejudice to the defendant.  The program may include a personal conference after the visitation, which may include the sentencing judge or the judge who coordinates the program for the court, the defendant, defendant's counsel, and, if available, the defendant's parents to discuss the visitation and its effect on the defendant's future conduct.  If a personal conference is not practicable because of the defendant's absence from the jurisdiction, conflicting time schedules, or any other reason, the court shall require the defendant to submit a written report concerning the visitation experience and its impact on the defendant.  The county, a court, any facility visited pursuant to the program, any agents, employees, or independent contractors of the court, county, or facility visited pursuant to the program, and any person supervising a defendant during the visitation, are not liable for any civil damages resulting from injury to the defendant, or for civil damages associated with the visitation which are caused by the defendant, except for willful or grossly negligent acts intended to, or reasonably expected to result in, that injury or damage.

     The Supreme Court may adopt court rules or directives to effectuate the purposes of this subsection.

     (i)    In addition to any other fine, fee, or other charge imposed pursuant to law, the court shall assess a person convicted of a violation of the provisions of this section a surcharge of $125, of which amount $50 shall be payable to the municipality in which the conviction was obtained, $50 shall be payable to the Treasurer of the State of New Jersey for deposit into the General Fund, and $25 which shall be payable as follows: in a matter where the summons was issued by a municipality's law enforcement agency, to that municipality to be used for the cost of equipping police vehicles with mobile video recording systems pursuant to the provisions of section 1 of P.L.2014, c.54 (C.40A:14-118.1); in a matter where the summons was issued by a county's law enforcement agency, to that county; and in a matter where the summons was issued by a State law enforcement agency, to the General Fund.

(cf: P.L. 2014, c.54, s.2)

 

     22.  Section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) is amended to read as follows:

     2.  (a)  Any person who operates a motor vehicle on any public road, street or highway or quasi-public area in this State shall be deemed to have given his consent to the taking of samples of his breath for the purpose of making chemical tests to determine the content of alcohol in his blood; provided, however, that the taking of samples is made in accordance with the provisions of this act and at the request of a police officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that such person has been operating a motor vehicle in violation of the provisions of R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 1 of P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14) , or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill).

     (b)   A record of the taking of any such sample, disclosing the date and time thereof, as well as the result of any chemical test, shall be made and a copy thereof, upon his request, shall be furnished or made available to the person so tested.

     (c)   In addition to the samples taken and tests made at the direction of a police officer hereunder, the person tested shall be permitted to have such samples taken and chemical tests of his breath, urine or blood made by a person or physician of his own selection.

     (d)   The police officer shall inform the person tested of his rights under subsections (b) and (c) of this section.

     (e)   No chemical test, as provided in this section, or specimen necessary thereto, may be made or taken forcibly and against physical resistance thereto by the defendant.  The police officer shall, however, inform the person arrested of the consequences of refusing to submit to such test in accordance with section 2 of [this amendatory and supplementary act] P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a).  A standard statement, prepared by the chief administrator, shall be read by the police officer to the person under arrest.

(cf: P.L.2007, c.267, s.1)

 

     23.  Section 3 of P.L.2004, c.8 (C.39:4-50.2a) is amended to read as follows:

     3.    In order to promote the uniform enforcement of R.S.39:4-50 [and] , section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2), and section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), the Attorney General shall promulgate guidelines concerning the prosecution of such violations.  The guidelines shall be disseminated to county and municipal prosecutors within 120 days of the effective date of this act.

(cf: P.L.2004, c.8, s.3)

 

     24.  Section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) is amended to read as follows:

     2.  a.  Except as provided in subsection b. of this section, the municipal court shall revoke the right to operate a motor vehicle of any operator who, after being arrested for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14), shall refuse to submit to a test provided for in section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) when requested to do so, for not less than seven months or more than one year unless the refusal was in connection with a second offense under this section, in which case the revocation period shall be for two years or unless the refusal was in connection with a [third or subsequent offense under this] violation of section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill),  in which case the revocation shall be for [ten] 10 years.  A conviction or administrative determination of a violation of a law of a substantially similar nature in another jurisdiction, regardless of whether that jurisdiction is a signatory to the Interstate Driver License Compact pursuant to P.L.1966, c.73 (C.39:5D-1 et seq.), shall constitute a prior conviction under this section.

     The municipal court shall determine by a preponderance of the evidence whether the arresting officer had probable cause to believe that the person had been driving or was in actual physical control of a motor vehicle on the public highways or quasi-public areas of this State while the person was under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a narcotic, hallucinogenic, or habit-producing drug or marijuana; whether the person was placed under arrest, if appropriate, and whether he refused to submit to the test upon request of the officer; and if these elements of the violation are not established, no conviction shall issue.  In addition to any other requirements provided by law, a person whose operator's license is revoked for refusing to submit to a test shall be referred to an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center established by subsection (f) of R.S.39:4-50 and shall satisfy the same requirements of the center for refusal to submit to a test as provided for in section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) in connection with a first [,] or second [, third or subsequent] offense under this section or a violation of section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill)  that must be satisfied by a person convicted of a commensurate violation of this section, or be subject to the same penalties as such a person for failure to do so. For a first offense, the revocation may be concurrent with or consecutive to any revocation imposed for a conviction under the provisions of R.S.39:4-50 arising out of the same incident.  For a second [or subsequent] offense, the revocation shall be consecutive to any revocation imposed for a conviction under the provisions of R.S.39:4-50.  In addition to issuing a revocation, except as provided in subsection b. of this section, the municipal court shall fine a person convicted under this section, a fine of not less than $300 or more than $500 for a first offense; and a fine of not less than $500 or more than $1,000 for a second offense [; and a fine of $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense].  The person also shall be required to install an ignition interlock device pursuant to the provisions of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.16 et al.).

     b.    For a first offense, the fine imposed upon the convicted person shall be not less than $600 or more than $1,000 and the period of license suspension shall be not less than one year or more than two years; for a second offense, a fine of not less than $1,000 or more than $2,000 and a license suspension for a period of four years [; and for a third or subsequent offense, a fine of $2,000 and a license suspension for a period of 20 years] when a violation of this section occurs while:

     (1)   on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of such school property;

     (2)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 if the municipality, by ordinance or resolution, has designated the school crossing as such; or

     (3)   driving through a school crossing as defined in R.S.39:1-1 knowing that juveniles are present if the municipality has not designated the school crossing as such by ordinance or resolution.

     A map or true copy of a map depicting the location and boundaries of the area on or within 1,000 feet of any property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board produced pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1987, c.101 (C.2C:35-7) may be used in a prosecution under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

     It shall not be relevant to the imposition of sentence pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection that the defendant was unaware that the prohibited conduct took place while on or within 1,000 feet of any school property or while driving through a school crossing.  Nor shall it be relevant to the imposition of sentence that no juveniles were present on the school property or crossing zone at the time of the offense or that the school was not in session.

(cf: P.L.2009, c.201, s.5)

 

     25.  Section 1 of P.L.1984, c.4 (C.39:4-50.8) is amended to read as follows:

     1.  Upon a conviction of a violation of R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill),  the court shall collect from the defendant a surcharge of [$100.00] $100 in addition to and independently of any fine imposed on that defendant.  The court shall forward the surcharge to the [Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles] Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission who shall deposit [$95.00] $95 of the surcharge into a "Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund" (hereinafter referred to as the "fund"). This fund shall be used to establish a Statewide drunk driving enforcement program to be supervised by the [director] chief administrator.  The remaining [$5.00] $5 of each surcharge shall be deposited by the [director] chief administrator into a separate fund for administrative expenses.

     A municipality shall be entitled to periodic grants from the "Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund" in amounts representing its proportionate contribution to the fund.  A municipality shall be deemed to have contributed to the fund the portion of the surcharge allocated to the fund, collected pursuant to this section if the violation of R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) , or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) occurred within the municipality and the arrest resulting in conviction was made by the member of a municipal [police force] law enforcement agency. The grants from the fund shall be used by the municipality to increase enforcement of R.S.39:4-50 by subsidizing additional law enforcement patrols and through other measures approved by the [director] chief administrator.  The Division of State Police, interstate law enforcement agencies and county law enforcement agencies shall be entitled to periodic grants from the fund in amounts representing their proportionate contribution to the fund.  The Division of State Police or county or interstate law enforcement agency shall be [in] deemed to have contributed to the fund the portion of the surcharge allocated to the fund collected pursuant to this section if the arrest resulting in a conviction was made by a member of the Division of State Police or county or interstate law enforcement agency.  The grants from the fund shall be used by the Division of State Police or county or interstate law enforcement agency to increase enforcement of R.S.39:4-50 by subsidizing additional law enforcement patrols and through other measures approved by the [director] chief administrator

     The surcharge described herein shall not be considered a fine, penalty or forfeiture to be distributed pursuant to R.S.39:5-41. 

     The [director] chief administrator shall promulgate rules and regulations in order to effectuate the purposes of this section. 

(cf: P.L.1994, c.184, s.3)

 

     26.  Section 1 of P.L.1992, c.189 (C.39:4-50.14) is amended to read as follows:

     1.    Any person under the legal age to purchase alcoholic beverages who operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.01% or more, but less than 0.08%, by weight of alcohol in his blood, shall forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State or shall be prohibited from obtaining a license to operate a motor vehicle in this State for a period of not less than 30 or more than 90 days beginning on the date he becomes eligible to obtain a license or on the day of conviction, whichever is later, and shall perform community service for a period of not less than 15 or more than 30 days.

     In addition, the person shall satisfy the program and fee requirements of an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center or participate in a program of alcohol education and highway safety as prescribed by the chief administrator.

     The penalties provided under the provisions of this section shall be in addition to the penalties which the court may impose under N.J.S.2C:33-15, R.S.33:1-81, R.S.39:4-50 , section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill),  or any other law.

(cf: P.L.2003, c.314, s.3)

 

     27.  Section 1 of P.L.1999, c.410 (C.39:4-50.15) is amended to read as follows:

     1.    a.  As used in this act:

     "Minor" means a person who is 17 years of age or younger.

     "Parent or guardian" means any natural parent, adoptive parent, resource family parent, stepparent, or any person temporarily responsible for the care, custody or control of a minor or upon whom there is a legal duty for such care, custody or control.

     b.    A parent or guardian who is convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) and who, at the time of the violation, has a minor as a passenger in the motor vehicle is guilty of a disorderly persons offense.

     c.     In addition to the penalties otherwise prescribed by law, a person who is convicted under subsection b. of this section shall forfeit the right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State for a period of not more than six months and shall be ordered to perform community service for a period of not more than five days.

(cf: P.L.2004, c.130, s.112)

 

     28.  Section 2 of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.17) is amended to read as follows:

     2.    a. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, in sentencing a first offender under R.S.39:4-50, the court may order, in addition to any other penalty imposed by that section, the installation of an ignition interlock device in the motor vehicle principally operated by the offender following the expiration of the period of license suspension imposed under that section.  In sentencing a first offender under section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), the court shall order, in addition to any other penalty imposed by that section, the installation of an ignition interlock device in the motor vehicle principally operated by the offender during and following the expiration of the period of license suspension imposed under that section.  The device shall remain installed for not less than six months or more than one year, commencing immediately upon the return of the offender's driver's license after the required period of suspension has been served.

     (2)   If the first offender's blood alcohol concentration is 0.15% or higher, the court shall order, in addition to any other penalty imposed under R.S.39:4-50, the installation of an ignition interlock device in the motor vehicle principally operated by the offender during and following the expiration of the period of license suspension imposed under that section.  In addition to installation during the period of license suspension, the device shall remain installed for not less than six months or more than one year, commencing immediately upon the return of the offender's driver's license after the required period of suspension has been served.

     b.    In sentencing a second [or subsequent] offender under R.S.39:4-50 or section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), or an offender under section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), the court shall order, in addition to any other penalty imposed by that section, the installation of an ignition interlock device in the motor vehicle principally operated by the offender during and following the expiration of the period of license suspension imposed under R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) , or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill). In addition to installation during the period of license suspension, the device shall remain installed for not less than one year or more than three years, commencing immediately upon the return of the offender's driver's license after the required period of suspension has been served.

     c.     The court shall require that, for the duration of its order, an offender shall drive no vehicle other than one in which an interlock device has been installed pursuant to the order.

     d.    As used in this act, "ignition interlock device" or "device" means a blood alcohol equivalence measuring device which will prevent a motor vehicle from starting if the operator's blood alcohol content exceeds a predetermined level when the operator blows into the device.

     e.     The provisions of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.16 et al.) and any amendments and supplements thereto shall be applicable only to violations of section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), R.S.39:4-50 and section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a).

(cf: P.L.2009, c.201, s.2)

     29.  Section 3 of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.18) is amended to read as follows:

     3.    The court shall notify the [Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles] Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission when a person has been ordered to install an interlock device in a vehicle owned, leased or regularly operated by the person.  The [division] commission shall require that the device be installed before reinstatement of the person's driver's license that has been suspended pursuant to R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill). The [division] commission shall imprint a notation on the driver's license stating that the person shall not operate a motor vehicle unless it is equipped with an interlock device and shall enter this requirement in the person's driving record.

(cf: P.L.1999, c.417, s.3)

 

     30.  Section 4 of P.L.1999, c.417 (C.39:4-50.19) is amended to read as follows:

     4.    a.  A person who fails to install an interlock device ordered by the court in a motor vehicle owned, leased or regularly operated by him shall have his driver's license suspended for one year, in addition to any other suspension or revocation imposed under R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), unless the court determines a valid reason exists for the failure to comply.  A person in whose vehicle an interlock device is installed pursuant to a court order who drives that vehicle after it has been started by any means other than his own blowing into the device or who drives a vehicle that is not equipped with such a device shall have his driver's license suspended for one year, in addition to any other penalty applicable by law.

     b.    A person is a disorderly person who:

     (1)   blows into an interlock device or otherwise starts a motor vehicle equipped with such a device for the purpose of providing an operable motor vehicle to a person who has been ordered by the court to install the device in the vehicle;

     (2)   tampers or in any way circumvents the operation of an interlock device; or

     (3)   knowingly rents, leases or lends a motor vehicle not equipped with an interlock device to a person who has been ordered by the court to install an interlock device in a vehicle he owns, leases or regularly operates.

     c.     The provisions of subsection b. of this section shall not apply if a motor vehicle required to be equipped with an ignition interlock device is started by a person for the purpose of safety or mechanical repair of the device or the vehicle, provided the person subject to the court order does not operate the vehicle.

(cf: P.L.2009, c.201, s.3)

     31.  Section 2 of P.L.2001, c.69 (C.39:4-50.23) is amended to read as follows:

     2.    a.  Whenever a person has been arrested for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) , or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), the arresting law enforcement agency shall impound the vehicle that the person was operating at the time of arrest.

     b.    A vehicle impounded pursuant to this section shall be impounded for a period of 12 hours after the time of arrest or until such later time as the arrestee claiming the vehicle meets the conditions for release in subsection d. of this section.

     c.     A vehicle impounded pursuant to this section may be released to a person other than the arrestee prior to the end of the impoundment period only if:

     (1)   The vehicle is not owned or leased by the person under arrest and the person who owns or leases the vehicle claims the vehicle and meets the conditions for release in subsection d. of this section; or

     (2)   The vehicle is owned or leased by the arrestee, the arrestee gives permission to another person, who has acknowledged in writing  receipt of the statement required in section 1 of P.L. 2001, c.69 (C.39:4-50.22) to operate the vehicle and the conditions for release in subsection d. of this section are met.

     d.    A vehicle impounded pursuant to this section shall not be released unless the person claiming the vehicle:

     (1)   presents a valid operator's license, proof of ownership or lawful authority to operate the motor vehicle, and proof of valid motor vehicle insurance for that vehicle;

     (2)   is able to operate the vehicle in a safe manner and would not be in violation of Title 39 of the Revised Statutes; and

     (3)   meets any other conditions for release established by the law enforcement agency.

     e.     A law enforcement agency impounding a vehicle pursuant to this section is authorized to charge a reasonable fee for towing and storage of the vehicle.  The law enforcement agency is further authorized to retain custody of the vehicle until that fee is paid.

(cf: P.L.2001, c.69, s.2)

 

     32.  R.S.39:5-22 is amended to read as follows:

     39:5-22.      Whenever a person is summoned by or on behalf of a person who has been arrested for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill),  in order to transport or accompany the arrestee from the premises of a law enforcement agency, the law enforcement agency shall provide that person with a written statement advising him of his potential criminal and civil liability for permitting or facilitating the arrestee's operation of a motor vehicle while the arrestee remains intoxicated.  The person to whom the statement is issued shall acknowledge, in writing, receipt of the statement, or the law enforcement agency shall record the fact that the written statement was provided, but the person refused to sign an acknowledgment.

     Nothing in this section shall impose any obligation on a physician or other health care provider involved in the treatment or evaluation of the arrestee.

     The Attorney General shall establish the content and form of the written statement and acknowledgment to be used by law enforcement agencies throughout the State and may issue directives to ensure the uniform implementation of this act.

(cf: P.L.1965, c.237, s.1)

 

     33.  R.S.39:5-25 is amended to read as follows:

     39:5-25.  Any law enforcement officer may, without a warrant, arrest any person violating in his presence any provision of chapter 3 of this Title, or any person, other than a motorman or person having control of a street car or auto bus, running upon a route approved by the Board of Public Utilities, violating in his presence any provision of chapter 4 of this Title.  A law enforcement officer may arrest without a warrant any person who the officer has probable cause to believe has operated a motor vehicle in violation of R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 5 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13), or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), regardless of whether the suspected violation occurs in the officer's presence.  The exemption from arrest of a motorman or person having control of a street car or auto bus, as conferred herein, shall not operate to prevent his arrest, however, for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill).  The arresting officer shall bring any person so arrested before any judge of the municipal court of the municipality wherein the offense is committed, or before the [director] chief administrator at any place designated as his office.  If the arrest is for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), the arresting officer may, if no judge, clerk or deputy clerk is available, detain the person arrested, either in any police station, lockup or other place maintained by any municipality for the detention of offenders or in the common jail of the county, for such reasonable time as will permit the arresting officer to obtain a warrant for the offender's further detention, which temporary detention shall not exceed 24 hours from the time of the arrest.  If the arrest is for a violation of any other provision of this subtitle, the person arrested shall be detained in the police station or municipal court until the arresting officer makes a complaint and a warrant issues. 

     Any law enforcement officer may, instead of arresting an offender as herein provided, serve upon him a summons. 

(cf: P.L.1994, c.184, s.4)

 

     34.  R.S.39:5-30 is amended to read as follows:

     39:5-30. a.  Every registration certificate, every license certificate, every privilege to drive motor vehicles, including commercial motor vehicles as defined in P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.9 et al.), every endorsement, class of license, and commercial driver 's license, may be suspended or revoked, and any person may be prohibited from obtaining a driver's license or a registration certificate, or disqualified from obtaining any class of or endorsement on a commercial driver's license, and the reciprocity privilege of any nonresident may be suspended or revoked by the [director] chief administrator for a violation of any of the provisions of this Title, Title 2C, or on any other reasonable grounds, after due notice in writing of such proposed suspension, revocation, disqualification or prohibition and the ground thereof.

     He may also summon witnesses to appear before him at his office or at any other place he designates, to give testimony in a hearing which he holds looking toward a revocation of a license or registration certificate issued by or under his authority.  The summons shall be served at least five days before the return date, either by registered mail or personal service. A person who fails to obey the summons shall be subject to a penalty not exceeding [$100.00] $100 , to be recovered with costs in an action at law, prosecuted by the Attorney General, and in addition the vehicle registration or driver's license, or both, as the case may be, shall [forthwith] be revoked.  The fee for witnesses required to attend before the [director] chief administrator shall be [$1.00] $1 for each day's attendance and $0.03 for every mile of travel by the nearest generally traveled route in going to and from the place where the attendance of the witness is required.  These fees shall be paid when the witness is excused from further attendance, and the disbursements made from payment of the fees shall be audited and paid in the manner provided for expenses of the [department] commission. The actual conduct of said hearing may be delegated by the [director] chief administrator to such [departmental] employees as he may designate, in which case the said employees shall recommend to the [director] chief administrator in writing whether the said licenses or certificates shall or shall not be suspended or revoked.

     b.    Whenever a matter is presented to the [director] chief administrator involving an alleged violation of

     (1)   R.S.39:4-98, where an excess of 20 miles per hour over the authorized speed limit is alleged, and which has resulted in the death of another;

     (2)   R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), and which has resulted in the death of another;

     (3)   R.S.39:4-96, and which has resulted in the death of another; or

     (4)   R.S.39:4-129, wherein the death of another has occurred, and the [director] chief administrator has not determined to immediately issue a preliminary suspension pursuant to subsection e. of this section, the [director] chief administrator shall issue a notice of proposed final suspension or revocation of any license certificate or any nonresident reciprocity privilege to operate any motor vehicle or motorized bicycle held by the individual charged or temporary order prohibiting the individual from obtaining any license to operate any motor vehicle or motorized bicycle in this State.

     In the notice, the [director] chief administrator shall provide the individual charged with an opportunity for a plenary hearing to contest the proposed final suspension, revocation or other final agency action.  Unless the [division] commission receives, no later than the [10th] tenth day from the date the notice was mailed, a written request for hearing, the proposed final agency action shall take effect on the date specified in the notice.

     Upon receipt of a timely request for a plenary hearing, a preliminary hearing shall be held by an administrative law judge within 15 days of the receipt of the request.  The preliminary hearing shall be for the purpose of determining whether, pending a plenary hearing on the proposed final agency action, a preliminary suspension shall be immediately issued by the judge. Adjournment of [such] the hearing upon motion by the individual charged shall be given only for good cause shown.

     At the preliminary hearing, the parties shall proceed on the papers submitted to the judge, including the summons, the police reports and the charged individual's prior driving record submitted by the [division] commission, and any brief affidavits permitted by the judge from persons who shall be witnesses at the plenary hearing, and the parties may present oral argument.  Based on the papers, on any oral argument, on the individual's prior driving record, and on the circumstances of the alleged violation presented in the papers, the judge shall determine whether the individual was properly charged with a violation of the law and a death occurred; and, if so, whether in the interest of public safety, a preliminary suspension shall be immediately ordered pending the plenary hearing on the proposed suspension or revocation.  The administrative law judge shall transmit his findings to the [director] chief administrator.

     A plenary hearing shall be held no later than [the 45th day] 45 days following the preliminary hearing.  Adjournment of the hearing shall be given only for good cause shown.  If the hearing is otherwise postponed or delayed solely at the [instance] request of the individual charged, the administrative law judge shall immediately issue a preliminary suspension of any license certificate or any nonresident reciprocity privilege held by the individual charged, or if any such preliminary suspension or order is in effect, he shall continue such suspension or order.  Such preliminary suspension or temporary order shall remain in effect pending a final agency decision on the matter.  If the hearing is otherwise postponed or delayed at the [instance] request of anyone other than the individual charged, the judge shall immediately issue an order restoring the individual's license certificate or any nonresident reciprocity privilege pending final agency decision in the matter. The period of any preliminary suspension imposed under this section shall be deducted from any suspension imposed by the final agency decision in the matter.

     c.     Whenever any other matter is presented to the [director] chief administrator involving an alleged violation of this title or Title 2C, wherein the death of another occurred and for which he determines immediate action is warranted, he may proceed in the manner prescribed in subsection b. above.

     d.    Whenever a fatal accident occurs in this State, an investigation of the incident, whether performed by the State Police or by local police, shall be completed and forwarded to the [director] chief administrator within 72 hours of the time of the accident.

     e.     Whenever a matter is presented to the [director] chief administrator involving an alleged violation of

     (1)   R.S.39:4-98, where an excess of 20 miles per hour over the authorized speed limit is alleged, and which has resulted in the death or serious bodily injury of another;

     (2)   R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), which has resulted in the death or serious bodily injury of another;

     (3)   R.S.39:4-96 or R.S.39:4-97, which has resulted in the death or serious bodily injury of another; or

     (4)   R.S.39:4-129, wherein the death or serious bodily injury of another has occurred, the [director] chief administrator for good cause may, without hearing, immediately issue a preliminary suspension of any license certificate or any nonresident reciprocity privilege to operate any motor vehicle or motorized bicycle held by an individual charged or temporary order prohibiting the individual from obtaining any license to operate any motor vehicle or motorized bicycle in this State.  For purposes of this subsection, "serious bodily injury" means bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.  Along with the notice of preliminary suspension, the [director] chief administrator shall issue a notice of proposed final suspension, revocation or other final agency action, and shall afford the individual the right to a preliminary hearing to contest the preliminary suspension and a plenary hearing to contest the proposed final agency action.

     The preliminary suspension shall remain in effect pending a final agency decision on the proposed final agency action, unless a request for a preliminary hearing is received by the [division] commission no later than [the 10th day] 10 days from the date on which the notice was mailed.  The proposed final agency action shall take effect on the date specified in the notice unless a request for a plenary hearing is received by the [division] commission no later than [the 10th day] 10 days from the date on which the notice was mailed. 

     Upon timely request by the individual, a preliminary hearing shall be held by an administrative law judge, no later than [the 15th day] 15 days from the date on which the [division] commission receives the request.  The preliminary hearing shall be for the purpose of determining whether, pending a final agency decision on the matter, the preliminary suspension issued by the [director] chief administrator shall remain in effect.  Adjournment of the hearing shall be given only for good cause shown. If the preliminary hearing is otherwise postponed or delayed solely at the [instance] request of someone other than the individual charged, the judge shall immediately order that the individual's license certificate or any nonresident reciprocity privilege be restored pending the rescheduled preliminary hearing.

     At the preliminary hearing, the parties shall proceed on the papers submitted to the judge, including the summons, the police reports and the charged individual's prior driving record submitted by the [division] commission, and any brief affidavits permitted by the judge from persons who shall be witnesses at the final hearing, and the parties may present oral arguments.  Based on the papers, on any oral argument, on the individual's prior driving record, and on the circumstances of the alleged violation presented in the papers, the judge shall immediately determine whether the individual was properly charged with a violation of the law and a death occurred; and, if so, whether in the interest of public safety, the preliminary suspension shall be continued pending the final agency decision on the matter.  The administrative law judge shall transmit his findings to the [director] chief administrator.

     Any plenary hearing to contest the proposed final agency action shall conform to the requirements for a plenary hearing contained in subsection b. of this section.

     f.     In addition to any other final agency action, the [director] chief administrator shall require any person whose privileges to operate a motor vehicle or motorized bicycle are suspended or who has been prohibited from obtaining a license, pursuant to this section, to be reexamined to determine the person's ability to operate a motor vehicle or motorized bicycle, prior to regaining or obtaining any driving privileges in this State.

     Any determination resulting from any preliminary or plenary hearing held pursuant to subsection b., c., or e. of this section shall not be admissible at any criminal or quasi-criminal proceedings on the alleged violation or violations.

     g.    In addition to any other requirements imposed by statute or regulation, as a condition for the restoration of a revoked or suspended license issued under the provisions of the "New Jersey Commercial Driver License Act," P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.9 et seq.), the person whose commercial driving privileges are revoked or suspended shall successfully complete a commercial driver improvement program.  The [director] chief administrator, in accordance with the provisions of the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), shall promulgate rules and regulations prescribing the scope and content of the program, the qualifications of third parties that may offer a commercial driver improvement program, a fee schedule for persons attending a commercial driver improvement program and such other matters as the [director] chief administrator may deem appropriate and necessary.  The successful completion of a commercial driver improvement program pursuant to this subsection shall not entitle a person to any reduction in the points assessed and recorded under P.L.1982, c.43 (C.39:5-30.5 et seq.).  In addition, the [director] chief administrator may also require a person holding a commercial driver's license pursuant to P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.9 et seq.) who receives 12 or more points during a 24-month period to complete a commercial driver improvement program successfully or face full suspension of the commercial driver's license driving privilege.

(cf: P.L.2003, c.131, s.3)

 

     35.  Section 2 of P.L.2003, c.23 (C.39:5-54) is amended to read as follows:

     2.    Whenever a person with diplomatic immunity is stopped by a State, county or municipal law enforcement officer who has probable cause to believe that the person has violated N.J.S.2C:11-5, subsection c. of N.J.S.2C:12-1, R.S.39:4-50, section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) [or] , section 2 of P.L.1972, c.197 (C.39:6B-2) , or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or has committed a motor vehicle moving violation, the law enforcement officer shall:

     a.     As soon as practicable, contact the United States Department of State office to verify the driver's status and immunity;

     b.    Record all relevant information from the person's driver's license or identification card, including a driver's license or identification card issued by the United States Department of State;

     c.     Within five working days after the date of the stop, forward to the [Division of Motor Vehicles] New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission the following information:

     (1)   A vehicle accident report if the person was involved in an accident;

     (2)   A copy of any citation or other charging document that was issued, if any; and

     (3)   A written report describing the incident if no citation or charging document was issued.

(cf: P.L.2003, c.23, s.2)

 

     36.  Section 14 of P.L.1985, c.520 (C.39:6A-4.5) is amended to read as follows:

     14.  a.  Any person who, at the time of an automobile accident resulting in injuries to that person, is required but fails to maintain medical expense benefits coverage mandated by section 4 of P.L.1972, c.70 (C.39:6A-4), section 4 of P.L.1998, c.21 (C.39:6A-3.1) or section 45 of P.L.2003, c.89 (C.39:6A-3.3) shall have no cause of action for recovery of economic or noneconomic loss sustained as a result of an accident while operating an uninsured automobile.

     b.    Any person who is convicted of, or pleads guilty to, operating a motor vehicle in violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a), section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or a similar statute from any other jurisdiction, in connection with an accident, shall have no cause of action for recovery of economic or noneconomic loss sustained as a result of the accident.

     c.     Any person acting with specific intent of causing injury to himself or others in the operation or use of an automobile shall have no cause of action for recovery of economic or noneconomic loss sustained as a result of an accident arising from such conduct.

(cf: P.L.2003, c.89, s.47)

 

     37.  Section 6 of P.L.1995, c.142 (C.2A:15-5.14) is amended to read as follows:

     6.    a.  Before entering judgment for an award of punitive damages, the trial judge shall ascertain that the award is reasonable in its amount and justified in the circumstances of the case, in light of the purpose to punish the defendant and to deter that defendant from repeating such conduct.  If necessary to satisfy the requirements of this section, the judge may reduce the amount of or eliminate the award of punitive damages.

     b.    No defendant shall be liable for punitive damages in any action in an amount in excess of five times the liability of that defendant for compensatory damages or $350,000, whichever is greater.

     c.     The provisions of subsection b. of this section shall not apply to causes of action brought pursuant to P.L.1993, c.137 (C.2A:53A-21 et seq.), P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-1 et seq.), P.L.1989, c.303 (C.26:5C-5 et seq.), P.L.1992, c.109 (C.2A:61B-1) or P.L.1986, c.105, (C.34:19-1 et seq.), or in cases in which a defendant has been convicted pursuant to N.J.S.2C:11-3, N.J.S.2C:11-4, R.S.39:4-50 [or] , section 2 of P.L.1981, c.512 (C.39:4-50.4a) , or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), or the equivalent under the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(cf: P.L.2005, c.329, s.3)

 

     38.  R.S. 40:48-1 is amended to read as follows:

     40:48-1.      Ordinances; general purpose.  The governing body of every municipality may make, amend, repeal and enforce ordinances to:

     Finances and property.  1.  Manage, regulate and control the finances and property, real and personal, of the municipality;

     Contracts and contractor's bonds.  2.  Prescribe the form and manner of execution and approval of all contracts to be executed by the municipality and of all bonds to be given to it;

     Officers and employees; duties, terms and salaries.  3.  Prescribe and define, except as otherwise provided by law, the duties and terms of office or employment, of all officers and employees; and to provide for the employment and compensation of such officials and employees, in addition to those provided for by statute, as may be deemed necessary for the efficient conduct of the affairs of the municipality;

     Fees.  4.  Fix the fees of any officer or employee of the municipality for any service rendered in connection with his office or position, for which no specific fee or compensation is provided.  In the case of salaried officers or employees, such fee shall be paid into the municipal treasury;

     Salaries instead of fees; disposition of fees.  5.  Provide that any officer or employee receiving compensation for his services, in whole or in part by fees, whether paid by the municipality or otherwise, shall be paid a salary to be fixed in the ordinance, and thereafter all fees received by such officer or employee shall be paid into the municipal treasury;

     Maintain order.  6.  Prevent vice, drunkenness and immorality; to preserve the public peace and order; to prevent and quell riots, disturbances and disorderly assemblages; to prohibit the consumption of alcoholic beverages by underage persons on private property pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2000, c.33 (C.40:48-1.2);

     Punish beggars; prevention of loitering.  7.  Restrain and punish drunkards, vagrants, mendicants and street beggars; to prevent loitering, lounging or sleeping in the streets, parks or public places;

     Auctions and noises.  8.  Regulate the ringing of bells and the crying of goods and other commodities for sale at auction or otherwise, and to prevent disturbing noises;

     Swimming; bathing costume; prohibition of public nudity. 9. Regulate or prohibit swimming or bathing in the waters of, in, or bounding the municipality, and to regulate or prohibit persons from appearing upon the public streets, parks and places clad in bathing costumes or robes, or costumes of a similar character; regulate or prohibit persons from appearing in a state of nudity upon all lands within its borders which are under the jurisdiction of the State including, without limitation, all lands owned by, controlled by, managed by or leased by the State;

     Prohibit annoyance of persons or animals.  10.  Regulate or prohibit any practice tending to frighten animals, or to annoy or injure persons in the public streets;

     Animals; pounds; establishment and regulation.  11.  Establish and regulate one or more pounds, and to prohibit or regulate the running at large of horses, cattle, dogs, swine, goats and other animals, and to authorize their impounding and sale for the penalty incurred, and the costs of impounding, keeping and sale; to regulate or prohibit the keeping of cattle, goats or swine in any part of the municipality; to authorize the destruction of dogs running at large therein;

     Hucksters.  12.  Prescribe and regulate the place of vending or exposing for sale articles of merchandise from vehicles;

     Building regulations; wooden structures.  13.  Regulate and control the construction, erection, alteration and repair of buildings and structures of every kind within the municipality; and to prohibit, within certain limits, the construction, erection or alteration of buildings or structures of wood or other combustible material;

     Inflammable materials; inspect docks and buildings.  14.  Regulate the use, storage, sale and disposal of inflammable or combustible materials, and to provide for the protection of life and property from fire, explosions and other dangers; to provide for inspections of buildings, docks, wharves, warehouses and other places, and of goods and materials contained therein, to secure the proper enforcement of such ordinance;

     Dangerous structures; removal or destruction; procedure.  15.  Provide for the removal or destruction of any building, wall or structure which is or may become dangerous to life or health, or might tend to extend a conflagration; and to assess the cost thereof as a municipal lien against the premises;

     Chimneys and boilers.  16.  Regulate the construction and setting up of chimneys, furnaces, stoves, boilers, ovens and other contrivances in which fire is used;

     Explosives.  17.  Regulate, in conformity with the statutes of this State, the manufacture, storage, sale, keeping or conveying of gunpowder, nitroglycerine, dynamite and other explosives;

     Firearms and fireworks.  18.  Regulate and prohibit the sale and use of guns, pistols, firearms, and fireworks of all descriptions;

     Soft coal.  19.  Regulate the use of soft coal in locomotives, factories, power houses and other places;

     Theaters, schools, churches and public places.  20.  Regulate the use of theaters, cinema houses, public halls, schools, churches, and other places where numbers of people assemble, and the exits therefrom, so that escape therefrom may be easily and safely made in case of fire or panic; and to regulate any machinery, scenery, lights, wires and other apparatus, equipment or appliances used in all places of public amusement;

     Excavations.  21.  Regulate excavations below the established grade or curb line of any street, not greater than eight feet, which the owner of any land may make, in the erection of any building upon his own property; and to provide for the giving of notice, in writing, of such intended excavation to any adjoining owner or owners, and that they will be required to protect and care for their several foundation walls that may be endangered by such excavation; and to provide that in case of the neglect or refusal, for 10 days, of such adjoining owner or owners to take proper action to secure and protect the foundations of any adjacent building or other structure, that the party or parties giving such notice, or their agents, contractors or employees, may enter into and upon such adjoining property and do all necessary work to make such foundations secure, and may recover the cost of such work and labor in so protecting such adjacent property; and to make such further and other provisions in relation to the proper conduct and performance of said work as the governing body or board of the municipality may deem necessary and proper;

     Sample medicines.  22.  Regulate and prohibit the distribution, depositing or leaving on the public streets or highways, public places or private property, or at any private place or places within any such municipality, any medicine, medicinal preparation or preparations represented to cure ailments or diseases of the body or mind, or any samples thereof, or any advertisements or circulars relating thereto, but no ordinance shall prohibit a delivery of any such article to any person above the age of 12 years willing to receive the same;

     Boating.  23.  Regulate the use of motor and other boats upon waters within or bounding the municipality;

     Fire escapes.  24.  Provide for the erection of fire escapes on buildings in the municipality, and to provide rules and regulations concerning the construction and maintenance of the same, and for the prevention of any obstruction thereof or thereon;

     Care of injured employees.  25.  Provide for the payment of compensation and for medical attendance to any officer or employee of the municipality injured in the performance of his duty;

     Bulkheads and other structures.  26.  Fix and determine the lines of bulkheads or other works or structures to be erected, constructed or maintained by the owners of lands facing upon any navigable water in front of their lands, and in front of or along any highway or public lands of said municipality, and to designate the materials to be used, and the type, height and dimensions thereof;

     Lifeguard.  27.  Establish, maintain, regulate and control a lifeguard upon any beach within or bordering on the municipality;

     Appropriation for life-saving apparatus.  28.  Appropriate moneys to safeguard people from drowning within its borders, by location of apparatus or conduct of educational work in harmony with the plans of the United States volunteer life-saving corps in this State;

     Fences.  29.  Regulate the size, height and dimensions of any fences between the lands of adjoining owners, whether built or erected as division or partition fences between such lands, and whether the same exist or be erected entirely or only partly upon the lands of any such adjoining owners, or along or immediately adjacent to any division or partition line of such lands.  To provide, in such ordinance, the manner of securing, fastening or shoring such fences, and for surveying the land when required by statute, and to prohibit in any such ordinance the use at a height of under 10 feet from the ground, of any device, such as wire or cable, that would be dangerous to pedestrians, equestrians, bicyclists, or drivers of off-the-road vehicles, unless that device is clearly visible to pedestrians, equestrians, bicyclists or drivers of off-the-road vehicles.  In the case of fences thereafter erected contrary to the provisions thereof, the governing body may provide for a penalty for the violation of such ordinance, and in the case of such fence or fences erected or existing at the time of the passage of any such ordinance, may provide therein for the removal, change or alteration thereof, so as to make such fence or fences comply with the provisions of any such ordinance;

     Advertise municipality.  30.  Appropriate funds for advertising the advantages of the municipality;

     Government Energy Aggregation Programs.  31.  Establish programs and procedures pursuant to which the municipality may act as a government aggregator pursuant to sections 40 through 43 of P.L.1999, c.23 (C.48:3-89 through C.48:3-92), section 45 of P.L.1999, c.23 (C.48:3-94), and sections 1, 2 and 6 of P.L.2003, c.24 (C.48:3-93.1 through C.48:3-93.3).  Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, rule or regulation to the contrary, a municipality acting as a government aggregator pursuant to P.L.1999, c.23 (C.48:3-49 et al.) shall not be deemed to be a public utility pursuant to R.S.40:62-24 or R.S.48:1-1 et seq. or be deemed to be operating any form of public utility service pursuant to R.S.40:62-1 et seq., to the extent such municipality is solely engaged in the provision of such aggregation service and not otherwise owning or operating any plant or facility for the production or distribution of gas, electricity, steam or other product as provided in R.S.40:62-12;

     Joint municipal action on consent for the provision of cable television service.  32.  Establish programs and procedures pursuant to which a municipality may act together with one or more municipalities in granting municipal consent for the provision of cable television service pursuant to the provisions of the "Cable Television Act," P.L.1972, c.186 (C.48:5A-1 et seq.) as amended and supplemented.  Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, rule or regulation to the contrary, two or more municipalities acting jointly pursuant to the provisions of P.L.1972, c.186 (C.48:5A-1 et seq.) shall not be deemed a public utility pursuant to R.S.48:1-1 et seq., to the extent those municipalities are solely engaged in granting municipal consent jointly and are not otherwise owning or operating any facility for the provision of cable television service as provided in P.L.1972, c.186 (C.48:5A-1 et seq.);

     Private cable television service aggregation programs.  33.   Establish programs and procedures pursuant to which a municipality may employ the services of a private aggregator for the purpose of facilitating the joint action of two or more municipalities in granting municipal consent for the provision of cable television service provided that any such municipality shall adhere to the provisions of the "Cable Television Act," P.L.1972, c.186 (C.48:5A-1 et seq.) as amended and supplemented, and to the provisions of the "Local Public Contracts Law," P.L.1971, c.198 (C.40A:11-1 et seq.) as amended and supplemented.  Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, rule or regulation to the contrary, a municipality that employs the services of a private aggregator pursuant to the provisions of P.L.1972, c.186 (C.48:5A-1 et seq.)  shall not be deemed a public utility pursuant to R.S.48:1-1 et seq., to the extent that the municipality is solely engaged in employing the services of a private aggregator for the purpose of facilitating the joint action of two or more municipalities in granting municipal consent and is not otherwise owning or operating any facility for the provision of cable television service as provided in P.L.1972, c.186 (C.48:5A-1 et seq.);

     Protective Custody.  34.  Provide protective custody to persons arrested for  operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcoholic beverages, any chemical substance, or any controlled dangerous substance in violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) as provided in section 1 of P.L.2003, c.164 (C.40:48-1.3);

     Private Outdoor Video Surveillance Camera Registry.  35.   Establish a private outdoor video surveillance camera registry and  allow voluntary registration of private outdoor video surveillance cameras as provided in P.L.2015, c.142 (C.40:48-1.6 et al.).

(cf: P.L.2015, c.142, s.3)

 

     39.  Section 1 of P.L.2003, c.164 (C.40:48-1.3) is amended to read as follows:

     1. a. A municipality may enact an ordinance providing that a person who is arrested for a violation of the provisions of R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill) shall be held in protective custody at an appropriate police or other facility where the person's condition may be monitored until the person is no longer a danger to himself or others.  The municipal ordinance shall provide for the release of the person from protective custody when that person is no longer a danger to himself or others. The municipal ordinance may provide that a person is no longer a danger to himself or others when the person's blood alcohol concentration is less than 0.05% and the person is no longer under the influence of any intoxicating liquor or narcotic or hallucinogenic or habit-forming drug to the extent that the person's facilities are impaired. In no event shall a municipality hold a person in protective custody for a period of longer than eight hours without providing an appropriate hearing.

     b.    Notwithstanding the provisions of any ordinance enacted pursuant to subsection a. of this section, provided that it is not a detriment to the public safety, the arresting law enforcement agency may, because of the age, health or safety of the arrested person, release the person pursuant to the provisions of P.L.2001, c.69 (C.39:4-50.22 et seq.) or provide an appropriate alternative to protective custody.  The municipality shall not be subject to liability if a person is released from custody pursuant to the provisions of this subsection.

     c.     Nothing in this section shall be construed as requiring the use of State Police facilities by a municipality for the purposes of this act.

(cf: P.L.2003, c.164, s.1)

 

     40.  Section 18 of P.L.1971, c.317 (C.52:4B-18) is amended to read as follows:

     18.  No order for the payment of compensation shall be made under section 10 of P.L.1971, c.317 (C.52:4B-10) unless the application has been made within three years after the date of the personal injury or death or after that date upon determination by the office that good cause exists for the delayed filing, and the personal injury or death was the result of an offense listed in section 11 of P.L.1971, c.317 (C.52:4B-11) which had been reported to the police or other appropriate law enforcement agency within nine months after its occurrence or reasonable discovery.  If the victim is under 18 years of age, the three-year limit on filing shall commence on the day the victim turns 18 years old.  For the purposes of this section, "good cause" shall include, but not be limited to, instances where the victim or the victim's dependents were not appropriately informed of the benefits offered by the office as required by law.  The office will make its determination regarding the application within six months of acknowledgment by the office of receipt of the completed application and any and all necessary supplemental information.

     In determining the amount of an award, the office shall determine whether, because of his conduct, the victim of such crime contributed to the infliction of his injury, and the office shall reduce the amount of the award or reject the application altogether, in accordance with such determination; provided, however, that the office shall not consider any conduct of the victim contributory toward his injury, if the record indicates such conduct occurred during efforts by the victim to prevent a crime or apprehend a person who had committed a crime in his presence or had in fact committed a crime.

     The office may deny or reduce an award where the victim has not paid in full any payments owed on assessments imposed pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1979, c.396 (C.2C:43-3.1) or restitution ordered following conviction for a crime.

     No compensation shall be awarded if:

     a.     Compensation to the victim proves to be substantial unjust enrichment to the offender or if the victim did not cooperate with the reasonable requests of law enforcement authorities unless the victim demonstrates a compelling health or safety reason for not cooperating; or

     b.    (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1990, c.64.)

     c.     The victim was guilty of a violation of subtitle 10 or 12 of Title 2A or subtitle 2 of Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, which caused or contributed to his injuries; or

     d.    The victim was injured as a result of the operation of a motor vehicle, except as provided in subsection c. or d. of section 11 of P.L.1971, c.317 (C.52:4B-11), boat or airplane unless the same was used as a weapon in a deliberate attempt to run the victim down; or

     e.     The victim suffered personal injury or death while an occupant of a motor vehicle or vessel where the victim knew or reasonably should have known that the driver was operating the vehicle or vessel in violation of R.S.39:4-50, section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill), section 5 of P.L.1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.13), section 19 of P.L.1954, c.236 (C.12:7-34.19), section 3 of P.L.1952, c.157 (C.12:7-46), subparagraph (b) of paragraph (2) of subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:20-2, subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:29-2 or subsection b., c. or d. of N.J.S.2C:20-10; or

     f.     The victim has been convicted of a crime and is still incarcerated; or

     g.    The victim sustained the injury during the period of incarceration immediately following conviction for a crime.

     Except as provided herein, no compensation shall be awarded under P.L.1971, c.317 in an amount in excess of $25,000, and all payments shall be made in a lump sum, except that in the case of death or protracted disability the award may provide for periodic payments to compensate for loss of earnings or support.

     Ten years after the entry of an initial determination order, a claim for compensation expires and no further order is to be entered with regard to the claim except:

     (1)   for requests for payment of specific out-of-pocket expenses received by the Victims of Crime Compensation Office prior to the expiration of the [ten-year] 10-year period;

     (2)   in those cases determined by the office to be catastrophic in nature; and

     (3)   for requests for payment of expenses that were incurred only after the expiration of the [ten-year] 10-year period.

     No award made pursuant to P.L.1971, c.317 shall be subject to execution or attachment other than for expenses resulting from the injury which is the basis of the claim.

     Compensation may be awarded in an amount not exceeding the actual cost of a rehabilitative service of the type enumerated in section 2 of P.L.1999, c.166 (C.52:4B-18.2).

     The award may provide for periodic payments in the case of protracted care or rehabilitative assistance.

(cf: P.L.2011, c.165, s.1)

 

     41.  Section 1 of P.L.1989, c.325 (C.59:5-6) is amended to read as follows:

     1.    a.  Neither a public entity nor a public employee is liable for any injury suffered by a motor vehicle driver upon his voluntary release from police custody after reasonable precautions have been taken so that the driver is released in a position of relative safety and refuge following his arrest on a charge of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, pursuant to R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill).  

     b.   Neither a public entity nor a public employee is liable for any injury suffered by a motor vehicle occupant upon his voluntary release from police detention after reasonable precautions have been taken so that the occupant is released in a position of relative safety and refuge following the arrest of a motor vehicle driver on a charge of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, pursuant to R.S.39:4-50 or section 1 of P.L.    , c.   (C.        ) (pending before the Legislature as this bill)

(cf: P.L.1989, c.325, s.1)

 

     42. This act shall take effect immediately. 

 

 

STATEMENT

 

     This bill establishes criminal penalties for third or subsequent offenses of driving under the influence (DUI).  Currently, DUI is a traffic offense under Title 39 of the Revised Statutes (the State motor vehicle code).  The current penalty for a third or subsequent DUI violation is a $1,000 fine, a 10-year driver's license suspension, and a 180-day prison term, which may be reduced, by up to 90 days, for each day served participating in a drug or alcohol inpatient treatment program. 

     Under this bill, a person convicted of a third or subsequent DUI offense would be guilty of a fourth degree crime and would be required to serve a mandatory prison term of 180 days. The bill preserves the 90-day sentence reduction for participating in an inpatient treatment program and the driver's license suspension required by current law.  A person convicted under the bill's provisions also would be subject to the current ignition interlock device requirements, which would commence following the period of license suspension. 

     Fourth degree crimes are punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to 18 months, or both.

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