TRENTON – Today, Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey signed a groundbreaking legislation, S3150, also known as the “Real Accountability for Consequences of Unlawful Trafficking of Firearms Act.” This law establishes strict criminal penalties for gun traffickers when an illegally trafficked firearm they have provided is used in a crime that results in significant bodily injury or death.
This first-in-the-nation legislation allows charges of a first-degree crime if a trafficked firearm results in a death, and a second-degree crime if it leads to serious or significant bodily injury.
The bill will enable New Jersey prosecutors to charge out-of-state traffickers who have supplied around 80% of the guns used in crimes within the state.
The law is modeled after similar laws that impose strict criminal liability on drug dealers for overdose deaths.
Governor Murphy remarked on the daily fear many New Jerseyans live with, knowing that illegal firearms can be obtained and cause great harm. He emphasized that the new law allows New Jersey to hold illegal gun traffickers accountable for the harm caused by the weapons they traffic.
The strong anti-trafficking bill continues the Murphy Administration’s record of gun reforms, positioning New Jersey as a leader in gun safety. Since taking office in 2018, Governor Murphy has signed a series of comprehensive gun safety packages, including seven gun safety bills in July 2022.
In addition to legislation, efforts have been made to support Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) Programs. Recently, $15 million was announced for a competitive grant process to support these programs, bringing the total investment to $40 million in state and federal funds since 2021. CBVI programs work to interrupt cycles of violence with strategies including mentoring, street outreach, trauma support services, de-escalation, job training, and more.
First Assistant Attorney General Lyndsay V. Ruotolo, Senator Troy Singleton, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, and Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora expressed their support for the new law, highlighting its importance in combating gun violence, holding traffickers accountable, and securing communities across the state.
The legislation passed unanimously through both houses, reflecting a concerted effort to tackle the severe threat posed by illegal gun trafficking. The new law is expected to act as a deterrent, aiding in cutting off illegal supply lines, and keeping unregistered weapons off the streets.