New Jersey Assembly Bill A1384

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Prohibits release of home addresses of certain public safety employees by governmental entities.

Impact

The proposed legislation amends existing laws to ensure that the home addresses of the specified public safety employees are redacted from any government records available to the public. This change is motivated by concerns for the safety and privacy of those serving in high-risk positions within public safety sectors. Proponents argue that safeguarding these addresses will prevent potential threats and protect the individuals' families.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1384 aims to enhance the confidentiality of certain public safety employees by prohibiting government entities from disclosing their home addresses. This bill specifically targets corrections officers, parole officers, probation officers, and both current and retired law enforcement officers, shielding their personal information from public access. Under the Open Public Records Act, which currently allows such information to be disclosed as government records, A1384 intends to exclude these addresses from what constitutes a public record.

Contention

Discussions around A1384 may surface debates about transparency and accountability within government operations. Some may contend that openness regarding public officials' addresses is crucial for community trust and oversight. However, the balance between public safety and transparency may be a point of contention, with those in favor arguing for the necessity of privacy in light of the risks faced by these employees.