New Jersey: Legislation that Violates Due Process Passes Legislature

Last Thursday, Assembly Bill 4218  passed both the New Jersey Assembly and Senate.  A.4218 passed the Assembly with a largely partisan 48-11 vote, with most Republicans either opposing or abstaining.  The Senate passed the legislation with a 29-1 vote with nine Republicans and one Democrat not voting.  This legislation will now be sent to Governor Chris Christie (R) for his consideration.

A.4218, sponsored by Assemblywoman Gabriela Mosquera, seeks to expand a “prohibited” class under the guise of domestic violence.  However, this bill ignores legitimate due process concerns and does nothing to ensure a critical rights restoration process.  While this legislation was amended, it is still fraught with problems that could potentially ensnare law-abiding gun owners like what has been repeatedly witnessed in New Jersey.

This bill is unnecessary, lacks adequate due process and is laced with pitfalls for law-abiding citizens.  If lawmakers are serious about getting tough on domestic violence, they should focus on bills which enhance penalties for convicted violent offenders.

Governor Chris Christie has 45 days to act on A.4218 or this legislation automatically becomes law.  If the legislature is out of session over the summer, as it customarily is, the 45 days deadline may be extended.  Please contact Governor Christie and politely urge him to veto Assembly Bill 4218.

Governor Chris Christie
(609) 292-6000