Prohibits posting, publishing on the Internet, or disclosing certain information regarding military personnel.
Impact
The bill categorizes violations based on intent and reckless disregard for the potential exposure of military members to harassment. A fourth-degree crime, which involves reckless violations, can result in up to 18 months of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000. More severe intentional violations are classified as third-degree crimes, carrying potential prison terms of three to five years and fines up to $15,000. This improvement in legal protections aims to ensure that military families feel secure in their homes and within their communities without the fear of undue exposure due to unauthorized information sharing.
Summary
Assembly Bill A396 aims to protect the personal information of members of the Armed Forces of the United States and the New Jersey National Guard by prohibiting the posting or publishing of their home addresses and unpublished home telephone numbers on the Internet. The bill is focused on preventing harassment and protecting the privacy of these individuals and their families, recognizing the unique vulnerabilities faced by those in military service. It establishes that individuals, businesses, and state or local governmental agencies must seek written consent before disclosing such sensitive information, reflecting a heightened sensitivity towards the safety of military personnel and their families.
Contention
While the bill serves a public good in terms of protecting personal information, potential points of contention may arise around the enforcement mechanisms and implications for free speech. The requirement for individuals or entities to obtain consent before publishing such information could spark debates over the balance of protecting privacy against the right to share information. Additionally, critics may question whether the legal consequences are adequate to deter potential violators and whether the definitions of 'disclose' and related terms are sufficiently clear to support effective enforcement.