Requires State to lower compensation rate of civilly committed sexually violent predators to same level as State inmates for institutional work.

This bill (S 481) requires civilly committed sexually violent predators in New Jersey state facilities to be paid the same rate for institutional work as state inmates - currently below minimum wage - instead of the current minimum wage rate. It directly affects individuals committed under New Jersey’s sexually violent predator law (P.L.1998, c.71). The key provision amends Section 11(e) of the law to mandate this compensation rate alignment for comparable work, such as kitchen or laundry duties. The State Auditor’s 2012-2014 report cited this change as expected to save approximately $1.9 million annually. The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 9, 2024.