Upgrading the crime to first-degree
In NJ, a first-degree crime carries a penalty of 10 to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $200,000, or both. Currently, these offenses are classified as second-degree crimes, punishable by five to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $150,000, or both. The bill upgrades the crime from second to first-degree.
“We’re seeing more and more ghost guns turning up in communities throughout NJ, and the threat isn’t slowing down,” said State Senator Turner (D-Mercer and Hunterdon). “Recoveries have surged over 600% in recent years, and these weapons are specifically built to dodge the law. If we’re serious about keeping our communities safe, we need serious consequences for the people making and trafficking them.”
What are ghost guns?
Ghost guns are firearms that lack serial numbers, making them virtually untraceable by law enforcement. They are often assembled at home using kits or created using 3D printers, enabling individuals to bypass standard legal safeguards such as background checks and waiting periods. Law enforcement agencies have expressed growing concern over the rise of these weapons in criminal investigations.
A clear line against trafficking
“These weapons are designed to evade the law, and those who manufacture and distribute them are exploiting loopholes at the expense of public safety,” said Senate Majority Leader Ruiz (D-Essex and Hudson). “We are drawing a clear line: if you build, traffic, or transport ghost guns in New Jersey, you will face the full weight of the law. This legislation is about protecting our neighborhoods, supporting law enforcement, and shutting down the pipeline of untraceable firearms before more lives are lost.”
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