New Jersey Senators Richard Codey and Anthony Bucco will be introducing legislation to help counter the recent surge in car thefts.

The bill, which will be announced Thursday during a press conference, would increase the penalties for those convicted of motor vehicle theft or receiving a stolen motor vehicle.

It would also subject repeat offenders to the possibility of an extended term.

A juvenile who is found to have received a stolen vehicle would have to serve 60 days of community service, and a juvenile who has previously been adjudicated delinquent for a motor vehicle charge would be required to get a minimum 60-day period of incarceration.

Additionally, the bill would increase penalties for leaders of auto theft trafficking networks who conspire with others including a juvenile.

New Jersey saw a 22% increase in car thefts in 2021, and 2022 numbers are on track to surpass that total.

Earlier this year, the Murphy administration announced a policy reversal, allowing police to pursue stolen vehicles.