New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR109

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Expresses support for US and NJ law enforcement officers; urges all levels of government to take action to increase support, safety, and well-being of law enforcement officers.

Impact

The resolution arrives amidst growing concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers, particularly as recent statistics show a troubling rise in assaults against them, with over 79,000 reported incidents in 2023 alone. Additionally, the resolution highlights the concerning trend of declining officer numbers, reporting a 5.3% decrease in full-time state and local officers from 2019 to 2021. This situation poses challenges to community safety and the effective delivery of policing services, thereby necessitating comprehensive government action.

Summary

ACR109 is a concurrent resolution from the New Jersey legislature expressing strong support for law enforcement officers both in New Jersey and across the United States. The resolution emphasizes the need for heightened action from all levels of government to maximize the safety and well-being of these officers. It calls for initiatives that include increasing the total number of law enforcement personnel, improving the equipment and training provided to officers, strengthening penalties for assaults against them, and expanding mental health resources to support their welfare.

Contention

While this resolution seeks to bolster support for law enforcement, it may also evoke debate regarding the balance between public safety and civil liberties. Critics may argue that strengthening penalties for assaults could lead to harsher treatment of individuals during law enforcement encounters. Moreover, while maximizing resources for law enforcement is a priority, there may be differing opinions on resource allocation, especially in communities seeking increased investments in alternative forms of public safety and support.