A 431 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Establishes civil action for abuse, neglect, exploitation or bullying of minor or adult with disability; provides that bullying of vulnerable adult may constitute grounds for investigation by adult protective services and report to law enforcement.

This bill creates new civil legal protections for minors and adults with disabilities who experience abuse, neglect, exploitation, or bullying. It extends the time to file lawsuits: minors with disabilities can sue up to 37 years after reaching adulthood or within 7 years of discovering the injury, while adults with disabilities have a 7-year window from discovery. The bill defines "bullying" broadly (including electronic communication causing fear) and clarifies that bullying of vulnerable adults may trigger investigations by adult protective services and law enforcement reports. It directly affects individuals with disabilities who face these harms, providing clearer legal pathways for accountability. The legislation amends New Jersey's statute of limitations and defines key terms in existing disability protection laws.
Tags: People with Disabilities
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Aging and Human Services Committee
lower
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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