New Jersey State Senator Michael Testa (R-01) today responded to news reports indicating that Governor Phil Murphy is planning to issue an executive order that would allow individuals convicted of serious crimes to serve on juries, despite the Legislature’s rejection of this proposal in 2023.
“Once again, Governor Murphy is attempting to impose his personal agenda by executive fiat after the people’s representatives clearly said no,” said Senator Testa. “This proposal was debated and rejected by the Legislature, yet the Governor now appears determined to circumvent that decision in the final days of his administration.”
Senator Testa flatly rejected any claim that the Governor has the legal authority to unilaterally rewrite jury eligibility standards, which have been enshrined in New Jersey’s statutory law for generations.
“Clemency exists to lessen punishment imposed on an individual,” Testa said. “The exclusion of convicted criminals from jury service is not a punishment at all – it is a policy judgment designed to protect the integrity, impartiality, and public credibility of the judicial system. Any impact on offenders is incidental to that goal, not punitive in nature, and therefore well outside the constitutional scope of the Governor’s clemency power.”
“The separation of powers matters,” Testa said. “The Governor does not get to override the Legislature simply because he disagrees with its judgment. If this reckless policy could not pass through the democratic process, it should not be imposed by executive decree.”
The Senator emphasized that jury service is a fundamental civic responsibility that requires trust in the rule of law and respect for the justice system.
“Individuals convicted of serious crimes broke the social contract that binds our society together,” Testa continued. “Serving on a jury is not a right, privilege, or entitlement. Rather, it is a profound civic duty – and one that is not to be conferred lightly. The solemn power to sit in judgment of others under the law should not be entrusted to those who have shown a willingness to violate it.”
Senator Testa criticized Governor Murphy’s priorities as he prepares to leave office.
“Even as his tenure comes to an end, Governor Murphy continues to side with criminals over law-abiding citizens,” Testa said. “New Jersey families deserve a justice system that puts public safety, accountability, and respect for the law first – not one that elevates the rights of convicted felons above those of victims and everyday citizens.”
Senator Testa called on the Governor to abandon the proposal and respect the will of the Legislature and the people of New Jersey.
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