A 717

This bill increases the criminal penalty for unauthorized entry into nuclear power plants in New Jersey from a fourth-degree crime to a third-degree crime. Under current law, trespassing in a nuclear electric generating plant carries the same fourth-degree penalty as trespassing in other sensitive facilities like schools, water treatment plants, or chemical storage facilities, punishable by up to 18 months imprisonment and/or a $10,000 fine. By elevating this offense to a third-degree crime, the bill would subject violators to more severe penalties (typically 3-5 years imprisonment and higher fines), making nuclear power plants the only facilities in the state's trespassing statute to carry this enhanced penalty level. The bill's primary purpose is to provide stronger deterrence and punishment for security breaches at nuclear facilities, recognizing their unique risks to public safety.