WeVote
Log In

Bill

MM

Bill

A 5455

Authorizes majority of Commission on Human Trafficking membership to exercise powers and duties of commission.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michele Matsikoudis and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 5455 allows a majority of the Commission on Human Trafficking members to act, improving efficiency and support for victims in New Jersey despite vacancies.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
#crimproced #crimes
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5455

Summary of Bill A 5455

Bill Number: A 5455
Title: Authorizes majority of Commission on Human Trafficking membership to exercise powers and duties of commission
Status: Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
Introduced: March 17, 2025
Sponsored by: Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez, District 32 (Hudson)
Classification: Bill
Subject: Criminal Procedure, Crimes

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5455 aims to amend the existing structure of the Commission on Human Trafficking in New Jersey by allowing a majority of its members to exercise the commission's powers and duties. This change is intended to facilitate the commission's operations, particularly in situations where vacancies may hinder the ability to achieve a quorum.

Key Provisions

  • Commission Structure: The Commission on Human Trafficking consists of 17 members, including representatives from various state departments, law enforcement, victim assistance organizations, and public members with expertise in human trafficking.

  • Quorum Requirements: Currently, a quorum requires nine members to be present for the commission to conduct business. This bill modifies the requirement, allowing a majority of the members present to exercise the commission's powers, thereby easing the operational challenges posed by vacancies.

  • Duties of the Commission: The commission is tasked with:

    • Evaluating existing laws related to human trafficking and making legislative recommendations.
    • Reviewing victim assistance programs and analyzing their effectiveness and availability.
    • Promoting coordinated responses to assist victims of human trafficking.
    • Developing public awareness initiatives regarding human trafficking and available victim services.

  • Reporting: The commission is required to report annually to the Governor and the Legislature on its activities, findings, and recommendations for improvements in services and resources for victims.

Impact

  • Who is Affected: The bill primarily affects the members of the Commission on Human Trafficking and the victims of human trafficking in New Jersey. By streamlining the commission's ability to operate, it aims to enhance the effectiveness of responses to human trafficking issues.

  • Operational Efficiency: By allowing a majority of members present to conduct business, the bill seeks to ensure that the commission can continue its important work without being stalled by vacancies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Effective Date: The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.
  • Legislative Actions: As of March 17, 2025, the bill has been introduced and referred to the Assembly Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • Companion Bill: S 4320, which addresses similar provisions regarding the Commission on Human Trafficking.

This summary provides an overview of Bill A 5455, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on the Commission on Human Trafficking and its operations in New Jersey.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.