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Bill

ACR 13

Proposes constitutional amendment to restore the death penalty under certain circumstances.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Fantasia and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey proposes constitutional amendment to reinstate death penalty for certain crimes, requiring legislative passage and voter approval via referendum.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · ACR 13

Legislative bill overview

ACR 13 proposes a constitutional amendment to reinstate capital punishment in New Jersey under specified circumstances. The amendment would need to pass both chambers of the legislature and be approved by New Jersey voters through a referendum to take effect.

Why is this important

New Jersey abolished capital punishment in 2007, making it one of the first U.S. states to do so. This proposal represents a significant reversal of criminal justice policy that would affect how the state prosecutes the most serious crimes and reflects ongoing national debate about the death penalty's role in the justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Moral and practical arguments: Opponents cite concerns about irreversible execution of potentially innocent people, racial and socioeconomic disparities in death penalty application, and evidence questioning its deterrent effect, while supporters argue it serves justice for heinous crimes and victim families
  • Fiscal impact: New Jersey's previous death penalty system was extremely costly; reinstallation would require substantial investment in legal procedures, housing, and appeals processes that may exceed costs of life imprisonment
  • Democratic process: The bill requires voter approval, raising questions about whether capital punishment decisions should be made by referendum and how voter sentiment aligns with current criminal justice evidence and international human rights standards

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

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