New Jersey Senate Bill S452

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Prohibits release of home addresses of certain public safety employees by governmental entities.

Impact

Should S452 pass, it will have substantial implications on the state's laws related to public records and privacy. By amending previous legislation, specifically P.L.1995, c.23 and P.L.2001, c.404, the bill would ensure that the home addresses of the specified public safety employees are confidential and should be redacted from any records prior to public access. This move is intended to protect these individuals from potential threats and harassment, considering the sensitive nature of their jobs.

Summary

Senate Bill S452 aims to enhance the privacy protections for certain public safety employees in New Jersey by prohibiting government entities from releasing their home addresses. Specifically, this legislation covers corrections officers, parole officers, probation officers, and both current and retired law enforcement personnel. Under the existing framework defined by the Open Public Records Act, such home addresses are typically accessible as public records, but this bill seeks to amend that by exempting them from being classified as government records.

Contention

The bill has sparked some debate among stakeholders. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step towards safeguarding the lives of public safety employees, creating a safer working environment, and acknowledging the threats they may face due to their roles. Opponents, however, raise concerns about transparency and the public's right to access governmental records, stressing that the removal of such information could hinder accountability and public awareness about law enforcement activities.