New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3228

Introduced
5/13/24  

Caption

Bars certain public officials from holding elective office and participating in political activities for certain time periods.

Impact

The implications of S3228 would extend to the regulations governing public officials, especially those in high-trust positions. By enforcing a three-year ban on pursuing elective office after service, the bill seeks to establish a standard preventive measure against potential corruption and exploitation of public office for personal political advantage. Previously, regulations varied, with a one-year post-service ban for members of the State Commission of Investigation, which S3228 aims to consistently apply across all covered officials.

Summary

Senate Bill S3228 aims to enhance the integrity of public office by imposing restrictions on certain public officials regarding their candidacy for elective offices. Specifically, the bill bars individuals holding positions such as Attorney General, First Assistant Attorney General, county prosecutors, and members of the State Commission of Investigation from running for or holding elective office during their term of service and for three years following its termination. This initiative stems from the intent to prevent the misuse of positions of public trust for political gain, addressing concerns about conflicts of interest and the integrity of public service roles.

Contention

The bill has drawn attention for its stringent approach to limiting the political activities of individuals in prosecutorial and legal positions. There may be concerns about the potential chilling effect this could have on political participation among qualified individuals who might wish to serve in public office after their tenure. Some stakeholders argue that while it is essential to maintain integrity, overly rigid restrictions could deter capable leaders from engaging in public service, thus affecting the diversity and effectiveness of governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S716

Bars certain public officials from holding elective office and participating in political activities for certain time periods.

NJ A3396

Clarifies and strengthens disclosure requirements for certain complimentary tickets received by candidates, officeholders, political party officials, political committees and continuing political committees.

NJ A2545

Clarifies and strengthens disclosure requirements for certain complimentary tickets received by candidates, officeholders, political party officials, political committees and continuing political committees.

NJ AB378

Public officials.

NJ HB227

Ethics; laws pertaining to public officials and public employees revised

NJ A3527

Clarifies prohibition of nepotism by school officials; requires school officials to disclose information concerning certain employment; allocates School Ethics Commission in but not of DOE and authorizes appointment of certain staff.

NJ A1649

Clarifies prohibition of nepotism by school officials; requires school officials to disclose information concerning certain employment; allocates School Ethics Commission in but not of DOE and authorizes appointment of certain staff.

NJ AB496

Requiring certain persons holding a state elective office to serve as an election official.

NJ A2799

Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.

NJ A4094

Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.

Similar Bills

NJ S716

Bars certain public officials from holding elective office and participating in political activities for certain time periods.

CA SB710

District attorneys: conflicts of interest.

TX HB1690

Relating to the investigation and prosecution of offenses against public administration, including ethics offenses.

TX SB10

Relating to the prosecution of offenses against public administration, including ethics offenses.

TX SB2045

Relating to the prohibition of certain actions with respect to campaign contributions and expenditures by foreign persons; creating criminal offenses.

OR SB1571

Relating to the use of artificial intelligence in campaign communications; declaring an emergency.

LA HR55

Commends Phil Haney on his retirement and thirty-five years of public service

OH HB1

To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.