Bill

Bill > S3744


NJ S3744

Prohibits financial institutions from penalizing individuals for exercise of free speech.


summary

Introduced
03/30/2023
In Committee
03/30/2023
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/08/2024

Introduced Session

2022-2023 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill prohibits financial institutions organized or doing business under the laws of this State from penalizing individuals for expression of constitutionally protected speech. Many people living in New Jersey depend upon financial institutions, including banks, savings banks, savings and loan associations, building and loan associations, credit unions, or money transmitters, for critical aspects of business and personal affairs. Private financial institutions could presently include restrictions on consumers' exercise of free speech through user policies penalizing certain expressions of constitutionally protected speech. This bill protects constituents of this State from these policies by prohibiting them and by providing the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance with a means of enforcement. A financial institution determined by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance to have violated the provisions of this bill will be subject to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for each violation or up to $50,000 for each willful violation.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits financial institutions in New Jersey, such as banks, savings banks, credit unions, and money transmitters, from penalizing individuals for exercising their constitutionally protected free speech, either through direct expression or by using the institution's services to express speech. The bill also prohibits financial institutions from including clauses in consumer contracts that would restrict this free speech. Violations of the bill's provisions can result in civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation or up to $50,000 for willful violations, as enforced by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Commerce Committee (on 03/30/2023)

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