TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Senate, led by Senator Gordon Johnson, has passed a bill to abolish the role of constables statewide. This decision follows recommendations from a 2021 report by the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation (SCI).
The report criticized the role of constables as being outdated and problematic. Often, constables perform basic law enforcement duties without pay, training, or supervision. Their badges and uniforms closely resemble those of police officers, leading to public confusion.
Senator Johnson (D-Bergen) expressed concerns about constables misrepresenting themselves as certified law enforcement officers. Such actions can lead to unauthorized involvement in law enforcement matters and erode community trust in legitimate law enforcement.
Bill S-2341 aims to eliminate the position of constable from state law. The SCI report highlighted the historical nature of the role, dating back to the Colonial era, but deemed it unnecessary in modern, structured law enforcement systems. Instances of misconduct and illegal activities by constables were also noted in the report.
The Senate passed the bill with a vote of 32-1, sending it to the Governor’s desk for final approval. This move represents a significant shift in New Jersey’s approach to law enforcement roles and community safety.