Urges Governor to immediately rescind Executive Order No.411, which permits person with past conviction of indictable offense to serve on jury under certain circumstances.
Impact
SCR92 asserts that Executive Order No. 411 affects approximately 350,000 individuals in New Jersey, permitting them the right to serve on juries, in a manner inconsistent with prior prohibitions established in the law. The resolution highlights concerns from legislators regarding the implications of such a shift, indicating that allowing former felons to serve could create confusion in the courts and affect the perception of fairness in the judicial process. The resolution reflects a broader legislative intent to not only protect the integrity of jury service but also to facilitate public trust in judicial outcomes.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 92 (SCR92) urges the Governor of New Jersey to rescind Executive Order No. 411, issued by former Governor Murphy. This executive order allows individuals with past indictable offenses to serve on juries under certain conditions after completing their sentences, a significant departure from the established state law prohibiting such individuals from serving. The resolution emphasizes the legislative intent to maintain barriers on jury service for those with past felony convictions, aiming to protect the credibility and impartiality of the judicial system.
Contention
The resolution points out that the executive order is seen as arbitrary, as it creates a distinction based on the date of conviction but does not consider the nature of the individuals' past offenses, leading to potential inequities. Legislators express the need for a more collaborative approach towards establishing qualifications for jury service, rather than relying on unilateral executive actions that might undermine legislative authority. They argue that any significant changes to such policies should be subjected to thorough deliberation and public discourse to involve community and legal stakeholders in the decision-making process.
Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.
Relates to the line of succession for the governor and lieutenant-governor in cases where they are impeached or unable to perform the duties of the office.