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Bill

Bill

A 3815

Upgrades burglary of a residence as a crime of the second degree; upgrades it to a crime of the first degree if committed while armed.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Aura Dunn and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill upgrades residential burglary from third to second-degree felony, first-degree if armed, increasing criminal penalties for home invasions.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 3815

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 3815 increases criminal penalties for residential burglary in New Jersey by upgrading it from a third-degree crime to a second-degree crime, with an additional upgrade to first-degree if the burglar is armed. The bill was introduced in January 2026 and is currently under review by the Assembly Judiciary Committee.

Why is this important

Burglary sentencing severity directly affects prison terms, parole eligibility, and criminal records that influence employment and housing prospects. This change would result in longer sentences for residential burglars—a crime that affects home security and resident safety—and particularly addresses armed burglary, which carries heightened danger to occupants.

Potential points of contention

  • Sentencing disparities: Critics may argue enhanced penalties don't address root causes of burglary (poverty, addiction) and could disproportionately impact lower-income offenders; supporters argue it reflects the seriousness of home invasion
  • Armed burglary definition: Ambiguity around what constitutes "armed" (concealed weapons, tool-based threats, replica guns) could lead to inconsistent prosecution and legal challenges
  • Prison capacity and costs: Longer sentences increase incarceration expenses and strain on New Jersey's correctional system during a period of budget constraints

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

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