Bill

Bill > S2358


NJ S2358

NJ S2358
Permits government records custodians to redact certain personal information.


summary

Introduced
03/21/2022
In Committee
03/21/2022
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, home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and medical, financial, or personal information of a citizen, from records disclosed in response to public records requests. The bill aims to protect the privacy of individuals and prevent potential misuse of their personal information, while still allowing access to government records. It codifies a court decision that recognized a reasonable expectation of privacy for certain personal information. The bill also provides context on the need to protect email addresses and phone numbers, which are necessary for daily life, from unwanted solicitations or attempts at cybercrime.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee (on 03/21/2022)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...