New Jersey Senate Bill S832

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Elevates impersonating public servant to crime of fourth degree in certain instances; establishes offense of exploiting authority implied by a public emergency.

Impact

Under current law, impersonation of a public servant is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which carries a maximum penalty of six months imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000. The proposed bill significantly increases these penalties; a crime of the fourth degree could lead to an imprisonment term of up to 18 months and a fine as high as $10,000. By making these changes, the bill aims to deter fraudulent activities that exploit vulnerabilities during public emergencies, thereby enhancing public safety.

Summary

Senate Bill S832, sponsored by Senator Anthony M. Bucco, aims to elevate the crime of impersonating a public servant to a fourth-degree crime during certain conditions, specifically in scenarios involving a public health emergency or state of emergency. The bill amends existing New Jersey law to include stricter penalties for individuals who falsely present themselves as contact tracers or other public officials with the intent to deceive or defraud citizens. This legislative effort is an attempt to strengthen legal responses to fraudulent behavior that may arise amidst crisis situations.

Statement

The bill’s sponsors assert that by imposing harsher penalties, it serves as a clear message against exploiting public health crises. The definition of personal identifying information is expanded to protect citizens from fraud and identity theft, emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding sensitive information in times of emergency. Stakeholders will need to assess the effectiveness of these legal amendments in achieving the desired outcome of preventing fraud while understanding the context of public health and safety.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding Bill S832 revolve around concerns about overreach and implications for civil liberties. Critics may argue that increasing penalties for impersonation might lead to unintended consequences, including the potential for misuse of the law against individuals engaging in legitimate health inquiries or contact tracing efforts. Proponents contend that during emergencies, there is a heightened risk of exploitation, and the law should provide clear, strong deterrents against such actions. This creates a dialogue on the balance between enforcing public safety and protecting individual rights.