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Bill

A 4202

Requires collection of deoxyribonucleic acid sample for certain crimes.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Carol Murphy

Expands mandatory DNA collection to include human trafficking, arson, and car-jacking offenses, with specific timelines for when samples must be taken.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
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Bill Summary · A 4202

Summary of Bill A-4202 (Session 222, New Jersey)

Main purpose

Expand and update the DNA collection requirements under New Jersey’s DNA Database and Databank Act of 1994. The bill adds new offenses for which DNA samples must be collected and clarifies collection requirements for arrests, convictions, and various dispositions, with a focus on human trafficking, arson, and car-jacking, as well as extending existing DNA collection triggers to additional categories and timelines.

Key provisions and changes

  • Expanded offenses triggering DNA collection

    • Adds human trafficking (N.J.S.2C:13-8), arson (N.J.S.2C:17-1, subsection b), and car-jacking (N.J.S.2C:15-2) to the list of offenses associated with mandatory DNA collection.
    • Applies to offenses committed on or after January 1, 2023; retains prior trigger dates for other offenses already in law (e.g., aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, kidnapping, murder, etc.).

  • When DNA samples must be collected

    • For individuals convicted and sentenced to imprisonment: DNA samples must be drawn upon commencement of confinement.
    • For individuals convicted but not sentenced to confinement: DNA samples must be provided as a condition of the sentence.
    • For individuals incarcerated prior to the effective dates: DNA samples must be provided before parole or release.
    • For individuals arrested (but not convicted) for enumerated offenses: DNA samples must be provided prior to release from custody.

  • Juvenile provisions

    • Juveniles adjudicated delinquent or arrested for acts that would be offenses if committed by an adult (in the listed categories) must have DNA samples drawn or provided prior to release or as otherwise directed by disposition.
    • Aligns juvenile procedures with adult counterparts for the listed offenses.

  • Not guilty by insanity and related dispositions

    • Individuals found not guilty by reason of insanity or adjudicated not delinquent by reason of insanity for applicable offenses must have DNA samples collected under similar timelines.

  • Specified disorderly persons offenses

    • The bill uses the term “specified disorderly persons offenses” to include certain drug, prostitution, and related offenses for which DNA sampling may be required, consistent with existing statutory language regarding fingerprints and related processes.

  • General clarifications

    • The act does not preclude DNA collection under other laws or court orders.
    • Effective date: the act takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Who would be affected

  • Individuals convicted of the newly specified offenses (human trafficking, arson, car-jacking) on or after January 1, 2023, who are sentenced to imprisonment or given a non-imprisonment sentence.
  • Individuals convicted of these offenses prior to 2023 who are released or paroled after the effective date.
  • Individuals arrested for these offenses, regardless of conviction, who are released from custody.
  • Juveniles involved in delinquency proceedings or arrests for offenses that would be criminalized if committed by an adult in the listed categories.
  • Individuals found not guilty by insanity or adjudicated not delinquent by insanity for the listed offenses.
  • The broader population already subject to DNA collection for other enumerated offenses remains covered by existing provisions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Immediate effect: the act takes effect upon enactment.
  • New DNA collection triggers apply to offenses with the January 1, 2023 date (and earlier triggers continue to apply for other offenses).
  • DNA collection could occur at multiple stages: at commencement of confinement, as a condition of non-imprisoned sentences, prior to parole/release, or prior to release from custody for arrests.
  • Juvenile and insanity-related provisions are harmonized with adult processes to ensure DNA collection in parallel circumstances.

Practical impact considerations

  • Potentially broader DN A sampling population, including arson, human trafficking, and car-jacking offenses.
  • Increased administrative workload for law enforcement and the state’s DNA databank infrastructure to collect, process, and store samples.
  • Enhanced ability to link offenses and enhance investigative leads through DNA matching.

Note: This summary reflects the text and stated intent of Bill A-4202 as introduced, focusing on substantive provisions, affected populations, and procedural timelines.

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

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