Requires law enforcement develop protocol for social media in certain circumstances.
Currently, there is no legal obligation for law enforcement to remove outdated social media postings, which can result in significant negative consequences for individuals. For instance, someone who is no longer wanted may face unwarranted discrimination in employment opportunities simply due to the presence of their name on a social media list. Similarly, individuals who have been found but are still represented as missing can be subjected to undue scrutiny and concern. A2187 aims to mitigate these potential harms and enhance privacy rights by ensuring that once the status of an individual changes, the relevant social media posts are updated or removed promptly.
Assembly Bill A2187, introduced in New Jersey, mandates the development of protocols by law enforcement agencies for managing social media posts related to missing and wanted persons. The bill requires the State Police and local police departments utilizing social media platforms to create and implement a specific protocol that entails both posting and timely removal of such information. A critical element of the bill is the stipulation that any posts concerning wanted individuals who have been arrested or whose charges have been dismissed, as well as posts related to missing persons who have been found, must be removed within a six-month deadline after resolution.
This bill is pivotal in addressing the balance between public awareness and personal privacy in the digital age. Opponents may argue about the implications of continually managing such information and question whether the protocols will be efficiently implemented across various law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, discussions may arise regarding the adequacy of the six-month removal requirement—whether it is too lenient or rigid, depending on case circumstances. The bill's requirement for a standardized protocol can ignite debates on state vs. local jurisdiction, particularly around the capability and capacity of different police departments to effectively manage social media engagements.