Provides act of domestic violence or child endangerment committed during state of emergency may be classified one degree higher than underlying offense.

This bill (A5487) allows prosecutors in New Jersey to charge domestic violence or child endangerment offenses one criminal degree higher than the original charge if committed during a declared national, state, or county emergency. It directly affects individuals accused of these acts during emergency periods, such as natural disasters or public health crises. The key mechanism is granting prosecutors discretion to elevate charges under existing laws (P.L.1991, c.261), without changing arrest procedures or victim requirements. The bill amends current law to address potential increased risk during emergencies by raising the severity of criminal classification for these offenses.