New Jersey Assembly Bill A2680

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Establishes criminal penalties for production and display of false COVID-19 vaccination verification card.

Impact

The act introduces significant criminal consequences for various actions related to falsified vaccination documents. Specifically, anyone who sells or offers a false vaccination verification card could be charged with a crime of the second degree, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000. On a lesser scale, individuals who display or possess such false documentation could face a disorderly persons offense, incurring penalties such as up to six months of jail time and a $1,000 fine. The act, effective immediately upon passage, aims to deter the creation and distribution of fake vaccination cards.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2680, introduced in New Jersey, establishes criminal penalties for the production and display of false COVID-19 vaccination verification cards. This legislation aims to address the issue of fraudulent documents concerning vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2, which is essential in managing public health during the ongoing pandemic. The bill posits that efforts to combat misinformation and uphold the integrity of vaccination records are necessary to ensure public safety and trust in health measures.

Contention

While the bill is primarily seen as a necessary action in the fight against COVID-19 and associated fraud, it also raises questions regarding the enforcement of such laws and their implications on civil liberties. Concerns may arise about the balance between public safety and personal freedoms, particularly in how vaccination status is monitored and recorded. Debates may also touch on the effectiveness of penalties in discouraging fraudulent activity without inadvertently targeting legitimate individuals who may face barriers in obtaining accurate vaccination documentation.