Resolution Creating Commission to Study Sexual Misconduct in State Correctional Facilities Signed into Law

TRENTON – A resolution creating a commission to study sexual assault, misconduct and harassment by staff against inmates in state correctional facilities was signed into law today. The resolution, SJR-79/AJR-167, is sponsored by Senator Linda Greenstein and Senator Nia Gill.

“While we have enacted multiple pieces of legislation to address issues of sexual assault and misconduct at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility, it is abundantly clear that more needs to be done,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex), Chair of the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee. “This commission will explore the impact and feasibility of potential policy changes and initiatives to put an end to the rampant abuse we have seen in recent years.”

The new law will create a 17-member commission comprised of both state leaders and members of the public to examine issues affecting the safety and rights of inmates in state correctional facilities.

Among other issues, the commission will examine matters related to sexual assault and misconduct in these facilities, including what procedures are in place for reporting and investigating allegations; how prisoners are protected from retaliation and offered services to help with the trauma of their assault; whether it would be possible to increase the number of female staff members; if a citizen oversight board should be established; and if a citizen oversight board should be established, to name a few.