Bill

Bill > A2230


NJ A2230

NJ A2230
Permits government records custodians to redact certain personal information.


summary

Introduced
02/07/2022
In Committee
02/07/2022
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/08/2024

Introduced Session

2022-2023 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill permits a records custodian to redact any information which discloses the mailing address, home address, whether a primary or secondary residence, phone number, email address, or any medical, financial, or personal information of a citizen. This bill would prevent potential malicious use of such personal information and would protect the privacy of an individual when an open public records act request is fulfilled. This bill codifies the decision of Burnett v. County of Bergen, by protecting information for which there is a reasonable expectation of privacy. Email addresses and phone numbers are a necessity for daily life and the collection of such information by a government agency has legitimate uses including for emergency alert systems. The ability to gain access to many email addresses and other personal information opens up the residents of New Jersey to unwanted solicitations or harassing communications and creates opportunities for attempted cybercrime.

AI Summary

This bill permits government records custodians to redact certain personal information, such as mailing addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and medical, financial, or personal details of citizens, from public records requests. This is intended to protect individuals' privacy and prevent potential misuse of their personal information, such as harassment, unwanted solicitation, identity theft, or other criminal acts. The bill codifies a court decision (Burnett v. County of Bergen) that recognized a reasonable expectation of privacy for certain personal information. It also provides context, noting that email addresses and phone numbers are necessary for daily life and have legitimate uses by government agencies, but their widespread disclosure could expose residents to unwanted communications and cybercrime.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee (on 02/07/2022)

bill text


bill summary

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