New Jersey Assembly Bill A2028

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Allows county and municipal police departments to establish designated safe areas for Internet purchase transactions; establishes public awareness campaign.

Impact

Should A2028 be enacted, it would modify existing state regulations regarding the responsibilities of law enforcement in managing public safety for Internet transactions. By creating these safe zones, communities could expect reduced risks of crime associated with online sales, such as robbery or fraud. Utilizing public police facilities as meeting points emphasizes a proactive approach to safeguarding citizens engaging in such transactions, potentially minimizing past incidents related to exchanges arranged online.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2028 introduces provisions for establishing designated safe areas by municipal and county police departments specifically for conducting Internet purchase transactions. This bill aims to enhance public safety by allowing individuals who engage in buying or selling items online, through platforms such as Craigslist, to meet in secure, monitored locations designated for this purpose. The act outlines that these safe areas are to be set up at municipal police station properties with the provision of video surveillance to monitor transactions and ensure safety during face-to-face exchanges.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the extent of police liability concerning these transactions. The bill specifies that police departments and their officers will not be held civilly liable for any crimes committed during these exchanges. This aspect could stir debates about the adequacy of the protections in place for law enforcement and the implications of such immunity, particularly if incidents were to occur within these designated areas. Proponents might argue that this barrier of liability encourages police departments to provide these safe zones, while critics may contend that it absolves public officials from accountability during transactions that may go awry.