Prohibits posting, publishing on the Internet, or disclosing certain information regarding military personnel.
Impact
If passed, this bill will establish new legal protections under New Jersey law, making it a crime for individuals and entities to recklessly or purposefully publish private information that could lead to harassment or threats against military families. A reckless violation is categorized as a 'fourth degree' crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison, while a purposeful breach is considered a 'third degree' crime, carrying penalties of three to five years. Additionally, it imposes strict requirements on governmental agencies that wish to publish such private information, requiring written consent from the military members involved.
Summary
S1902 is a legislative bill proposed in New Jersey aimed at safeguarding the personal information of members of the Armed Forces of the United States and the New Jersey National Guard. The bill prohibits any individual from disclosing, posting, or publishing the home addresses and unpublished telephone numbers of military personnel, as well as those of their spouses and children, in a manner that would expose them to harassment or harm. The bill articulates specific legal consequences for violations, defining degrees of offenses related to the intent behind such disclosures.
Contention
The bill's provisions reflect an ongoing recognition of the unique vulnerabilities faced by military families, particularly in the digital age. While proponents argue that it is essential to enhance protections against cyber harassment, there may be questions about the balance between public information and privacy rights. Some critics may express concerns regarding the implications of such restrictions on transparency and the potential for unintended consequences in enforcement, especially with varying interpretations of what constitutes 'reckless' behavior in disclosures.
Enforcement
The legislative measure empowers affected military personnel and their families to seek civil remedies against violators. Victims can file lawsuits in Superior Court, potentially demanding actual damages along with punitive damages for willful misconduct. The bill delineates the definition of 'disclosure' comprehensively, encompassing a wide array of actions related to personal information sharing, thereby ensuring that individuals, businesses, and organizations are held accountable for any breaches.