New Jersey Assembly Bill A3422

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Requires any newspaper that publishes official advertising to also post that advertising on newspaper's Internet website.

Impact

The enactment of Bill A3422 would necessitate changes in the operations of newspapers in New Jersey, compelling them to adapt their practices to comply with these new requirements. This would not only increase the visibility of official advertisements but also potentially increase the readership of newspapers, as essential public notices would be more readily available online. Additionally, this legislation could set a precedent for similar requirements in other states, promoting a national conversation about the accessibility of governmental information.

Summary

Bill A3422 aims to amend existing legislation regarding official advertising by requiring any newspaper that publishes such advertisements to also post them on their respective Internet websites at no additional cost. This initiative is intended to enhance public transparency and accessibility of official advertisements, ensuring that all citizens can access this information online, in addition to its publication in print media. The bill specifically excludes posting these advertisements on third-party websites, reinforcing the importance of direct access through the newspaper's own platforms.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the financial implications for smaller newspapers, which may find the additional requirement burdensome, especially if they are already facing challenges with declining print circulation. Concerns may also be raised about the effectiveness of online postings in reaching all segments of the population, particularly those who are less technologically savvy or do not have internet access. The balance between advancing transparency and ensuring equitable access to information will likely be a central debate surrounding this bill.