Tampering, damage involving nuclear electric generating plant; crime of first degree.

1. The provisions of N.J.S.2C:17-2 to the contrary notwithstanding, any person who purposely or knowingly damages or tampers with any machinery, device, or equipment at a nuclear electric generating plant with the purpose to cause or threaten to cause an unauthorized release of radiation commits a crime of the first degree, and may be sentenced to an extended term of imprisonment as set forth in paragraph (2) of subsection a. of N.J.S.2C:43-7, notwithstanding the provisions of N.J.S. 2C:44-3; provided, however, that if the defendant is not sentenced to an extended term of imprisonment, the defendant shall be sentenced to an ordinary term of imprisonment between 15 and 30 years. L.1983,c.480,s.1; amended 2002, c.26, s.13.