Our Proposal
Background
Under current New Jersey law pepper spray and mace are classified as weapons, making them illegal for minors to possess. After interviewing high school students and government officials, many were unaware of this. Many believe that teenagers should be able to purchase pepper spray for their own safety. As a result, these items are commonly obtained informally, through online, a parent or without identification. Weak enforcement of the law has led to little to no consequences, this allowed minors access mace/pepper spray without regulation. Youth violence has risen in the following year since the COVID-19 shutdowns. Many teenagers attend school, have jobs, participate in extracurricular activities, with many having to rely on walking as a means of transportation. This exposure leaves teens vulnerable not only physically but also mentally and emotionally, contributing to fear and anxiety.
Our Proposal
The proposal seeks to amend title 2C:39-6i to allow teens ages 16-17 to legally obtain pepper spray under strict regulations. Applicants would apply through the New Jersey Motor Vehicles Commission during a learner's permit appointment or directly through the local police department. The process would require identity verification, parental consent, a medical disclosure form and a completion of a mandatory 10-hour safety training course. After approval by local law enforcement, a Non-Lethal Self Defense Permit would be issued and remain valid til the individual turns 18. The permit would allow the purchase of equal to or less than 0.75 ounces, the same as state law. The device must be registered with local law enforcement, and schools must receive proof of registration. During school hours school administrators would be responsible for storing the device. Municipalities may impose stricter requirements but cannot weaken the policy. Illegal possession without a permit would result in fines up to $1,500, and misuse would be handled through the juvenile justice system.
Expectation
The proposal is expected to improve youth safety by providing a regulated, non-lethal self-defense option. The mandatory training would focus on the proper handing, storage, self-defense techniques, and the awareness of health risks of mace and pepper spray. This ensures that mace and pepper spray would be used correctly and as a last resort for escape and not confrontation. Law enforcement agencies would be responsible for the enforcement of the policy. This may include handling submitted applications, conducting background checks, issuing permits, and enforcing penalties for misuse or illegal possession. While the Board of Education would establish clear school guidelines and educate students and parents about requirements.
Implementation
The proposed policy has a great chance of implementation as it heavily relies on existing legislation and non-lethal safety measures rather than creating an entirely new system. Similar legislation has already been enacted in Massachusetts, where minors ages 15-17 are legally permitted to possess self-defense sprays such as pepper spray with parental consent and a permit issued by local authority. The law highlights clear safety limits as well as penalties. The successful adaptation of this policy demonstrates that regulated access to non-lethal self-defense tools for minors is legally and socially feasible. Because this proposal follows a similar structure of parental permission, permit requirements, law enforcement oversight, and clear consequences for violations, it is likely to be implemented. The permit system would utilize the Motor Vehicle Commission and local law enforcement institutions.