Establishes civil action for damages against organizations that support terrorism.
Impact
The introduction of A2450 is expected to have significant implications for state laws regarding terrorism and civil rights. By enabling victims to seek damages, the bill enhances victim rights and provides recourse for those affected by terrorism. Additionally, it serves to deter organizations from associating or providing support to groups designated as terrorist entities. The expansion of legal liability to include civil actions presents a shift in how entities are regulated and their responsibilities regarding involvement with terrorist activities, thereby aligning state laws with federal terrorism statutes.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2450, introduced in New Jersey, aims to establish a legal framework allowing victims of terrorism to pursue civil action for damages against organizations that provide material support or resources aiding terrorism. The bill defines 'material support' broadly to include any assistance intended to aid in terrorist activities and specifies that this support could be solicited or provided by individuals, charitable organizations, or professional fundraisers. If enacted, this bill reinforces the state’s commitment to prevent terrorism by holding these organizations accountable through legal avenues.
Contention
Notably, A2450 could face contention regarding its impact on charitable organizations and fundraisers who may unknowingly provide support that could be construed as aiding terrorism. Critics could argue that the bill places undue burden on these organizations, potentially complicating philanthropic activities and stifling charitable contributions. The bill's broad definitions of support and terrorism might be criticized for being too vague or punitive, raising concerns among advocacy groups who argue it could lead to wrongful accusations or fear of legal repercussions in their fundraising efforts.
Clarifies that punitive damages may not be awarded against public entities or public employees acting within the scope of their employment in any action.
Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization and of sedition.
Relating to creating the criminal offenses of providing material support or resources to a foreign terrorist organization, engaging in terroristic activities, and threatened terroristic violence.
Provides for civil actions against persons or entities profiting from commission of human trafficking offenses, or maintaining victims of such offenses.
Probate: guardians and conservators; requirements to be appointed as guardian or conservator; modify. Amends title & secs. 5106, 5108a, 5313 & 5409 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.5106 et seq.) & adds secs. 5106a & 5106b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4171'23
Occupations: individual licensing and registration; licensure of professional guardians and conservators; require. Amends sec. 303a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.303a) & adds art. 14A.