Measure is Designed to Remove Politics from Prosecution
TRENTON – Senate President Richard J. Codey (D-Essex) announced today that he will introduce a bill that would bar the state attorney general and county prosecutors from running for elected office in New Jersey for two years after leaving their position.
“This measure would ensure that those in a position of considerable power do not abuse that power to further their political goals,” said Sen. Codey. “I think it’s a much needed step to ensure the integrity of our justice system.”
The provision would not apply to current races already underway, but would go into effect 180 days after enactment. Those that would be barred from running for office for two years include: the attorney general, the first assistant attorney general, and county prosecutors.
Sen. Codey noted that the provision is consistent with a similar measure that he pushed for in the law that created the position of State Comptroller in 2007. In line with the comptroller provisions, this new bill would also bar the aforementioned officials from holding elective office or holding a position within any political party or club.
“This is something I’ve felt strongly about for many years. Seeing that we were able to get it done with the Comptroller, who holds similar powers, I think it’s time we do the same for our other top investigators,” added Sen. Codey. “When you have somebody who wields the power to both investigate and bring charges against another person, you want to be confident that their motives are altruistic.”
The bill is expected to be introduced on Monday at the next scheduled Senate session.
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