In a move toward reforming the language used within the legal system, New Jersey lawmakers introduced Bill A4507, aimed at changing the term “inmate” to “incarcerated person” in state statutes.
This legislative effort, spearheaded by Assembly members Julio Marenco, Shanique Speight, and Carmen Theresa Morales, was introduced on June 6, 2024.
The bill seeks to amend various parts of New Jersey’s statutory law to reflect a more humane terminology when referring to individuals in the prison system.
This change is based on recommendations from the New Jersey Law Revision Commission’s final report issued on June 6, 2022, which advocated for language that more accurately reflects the human dignity of incarcerated individuals.
Specifically, the bill modifies language in statutes such as Section 7 of P.L.2013, c.274, concerning the transmission of information about incarcerated individuals between the Administrative Office of the Courts and other state departments like Labor and Workforce Development and Human Services. This includes detailed information on incarcerated persons to assist in verifying eligibility for state benefit programs.
By substituting “inmate” with “incarcerated person,” New Jersey legislators aim to shift the narrative towards a more respectful and rehabilitative approach within the justice system. This terminology change represents a broader effort to humanize individuals who are serving time, acknowledging them first and foremost as persons, not just as inmates.
