New Jersey Assembly Bill A1909

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes fourth degree crime of cyber-interference.

Impact

Once enacted, A1909 would amend Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes to formally categorize cyber-interference as a punishable crime. Offenders convicted under this bill would face serious consequences, including potential imprisonment for up to 18 months and fines reaching $10,000. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect individuals from harassment that occurs through modern technology, emphasizing that many current laws do not adequately address issues arising from electronic communications and the misuse of digital devices.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1909 proposes the establishment of a new crime known as 'cyber-interference,' classified as a fourth degree offense under New Jersey law. The proposed legislation aims to address and penalize the intentional disruption or tampering of electronic devices, which may cause harassment to individuals. This bill recognizes a wide range of electronic devices in its definition including computers, cell phones, smart home systems, and any device capable of transmitting or recording information electronically. This definition broadens the scope of the bill to cover many technologies that are commonplace today, recognizing the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the modern digital age.

Contention

While the bill is designed to enhance protections against harassment, there may be concerns regarding its enforcement and the unintended consequences of categorizing certain behaviors as criminal. Critics may argue that the bill could lead to overreach in regulating personal conduct, especially concerning legitimate uses of technology. There are valid discussions regarding the thresholds of what constitutes harassment and how intent can be assessed in a digital context, leading to potential debates over privacy and civil liberties pertaining to technological interactions.