A bill that would reduce court-ordered fines owed by drug- or alcohol-dependent individuals upon completion of a treatment program was voted out of the Assembly Judiciary Committee last week. A-275 (Armato)/S-1112(Vitale) is supported by the New Jersey State Bar Association (NJSBA) because it incentivizes participants to succeed in their rehabilitative efforts.
“Someone living with a substance use disorder needs help and guidance rather than punishment, even if they have broken the law because of their struggle with drugs or alcohol,” said Assemblyman John Armato. “Reducing fines for the completion of a treatment program provides further motivation for an individual’s successful participation, which will help them on a healthier and more promising path.”
