NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A4542

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4542

Introduced
6/13/24  

Caption

Includes crime of creating false public alarms as form of bias intimidation.

Impact

The impact of A4542 on New Jersey's legal landscape could be significant, as it expands the scope of what constitutes bias intimidation. By explicitly including false public alarms in this category, the bill underscores the state's commitment to combating intimidation across diverse communities. The changes may lead to judicial system adjustments in how prosecutors approach bias-related cases and potentially increase the number of charges filed under the revised statute. Moreover, by providing clearer definitions of prohibited behaviors, the legislation aims to support law enforcement efforts in identifying and addressing bias-related crimes more effectively.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4542 aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding bias intimidation in New Jersey by including the crime of creating false public alarms as an example of such intimidation. This legislation is designed to address instances where individuals may utilize false alarms with the intent to intimidate a person or group based on various protected characteristics, such as race, religion, or sexual orientation. The bill seeks to strengthen penalties associated with bias intimidation, recognizing the serious implications of such actions on community safety and cohesion.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding A4542 include debates on the breadth of the term 'bias intimidation' and concerns regarding due process implications. Critics argue that adding false public alarms may complicate the existing legal framework and could lead to interpretations that infringe on freedom of expression. Additionally, the bill's amendment to remove a previous paragraph deemed unconstitutionally vague could spark discussions on the balance between protecting victims and ensuring fair legal standards. Stakeholders in the law enforcement and civil rights sectors will likely engage in ongoing discussions regarding the bill's implementation and enforcement practices.

Latest A4542 Activity

Companion Bills

NJ S2674

Same As Includes crime of creating false public alarms as form of bias intimidation.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2674

Includes crime of creating false public alarms as form of bias intimidation.

NJ A1084

Expands crime of bias intimidation; establishes additional penalties for crimes of bias intimidation and harassment; establishes bias intimidation motivation damages.

NJ A2926

Expands crime of bias intimidation; establishes additional penalties for crimes of bias intimidation and harassment; establishes bias intimidation motivation damages.

NJ A3474

Expands crime of bias intimidation to include law enforcement officers and emergency personnel.

NJ A4561

Includes Sikhs as protected class in bias intimidation law; appropriates $100,000.

NJ S3532

Includes Sikhs as protected class in bias intimidation law; appropriates $100,000.

NJ S1622

Makes various changes to bias intimidation law.

NJ A2950

Revises law concerning bias intimidation to include members of press or media in protected class.

NJ S1463

Revises law concerning bias intimidation to include members of press or media in protected classes.

NJ S4144

Expands protection against bias intimidation to include political affiliation or belief.

Similar Bills

NJ S2674

Includes crime of creating false public alarms as form of bias intimidation.

NJ A772

Elevates the degree of desecration offense based upon the pecuniary loss; adds desecration to bias intimidation statute.

NJ A1504

Elevates the degree of desecration offense based upon the pecuniary loss; adds desecration to bias intimidation statute.

NJ A2652

Establishes defacement of certain gravesites where human remains are stored or interred as a possible Bias Intimidation offense.

NJ A5479

Eliminates provision in bias intimidation statute concerning victim's perception of defendant's purpose; replaces provision with language concerning a "reasonable" victim.

NJ S550

Eliminates provision in bias intimidation statute concerning victim's perception of defendant's purpose; replaces provision with language concerning a "reasonable" victim.

NJ S842

Eliminates provision in bias intimidation statute concerning victim's perception of defendant's purpose; replaces provision with language concerning a "reasonable" victim.

NJ A325

Eliminates provision in bias intimidation statute concerning victim's perception of defendant's purpose; replaces provision with language concerning a "reasonable" victim.