Bill > S3550

Introduced Session

This bill would criminalize the display of a noose, burning cross, or Nazi swastika under certain circumstances. Under section 1 of P.L.1981, c.282 (C.2C:33‑10), it is a crime of the third degree to purposely, knowingly or recklessly put or attempt to put another in fear of bodily violence by placing on private property of another a symbol, an object, a characterization, an appellation or graffiti that exposes another to threats of violence. Under section 2 of P.L.1981, c.282 (C.2C:33-11), it is a crime of the fourth degree to purposely deface or damage, without authorization of the owner or tenant, any private premises or property primarily used for religious, educational, residential, memorial, charitable, or cemetery purposes, or for assembly by persons for purpose of exercising any right guaranteed by law or by the Constitution by placing thereon a symbol, an object, a characterization, an appellation, or graffiti that exposes another to threat of violence. This bill would amend both statutes to provide that "a symbol, object, characterization, appellation or graffiti that exposes another to threats of violence" specifically includes, but is not limited to, a noose, burning cross, or Nazi swastika. A crime of the third degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of three to five years or a fine up to $15,000, or both. A crime of the fourth degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 18 months or a fine up to $10,000, or both.

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Joe Cryan (D)*,  Linda Greenstein (D)*, 

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 03/05/2019)