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NJ SR56
NJ SR56Condemns publication and distribution of images inciting, glorifying, or justifying violence against law enforcement officers.
summary
Introduced
01/09/2024
01/09/2024
In Committee
01/09/2024
01/09/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This resolution strongly condemns the publication and distribution of images inciting, glorifying, or justifying violence against law enforcement officers. Law enforcement officers are essential to the safety and well-being of this nation and all United States citizens. Recently, disturbing images have been circulated illustrating the beheading of American law enforcement officers, including one of a graphic image of a masked person slitting the throat of a police officer, published on social media by a National Football League player. While the player removed this image shortly thereafter and posted an apology, the initial post served to perpetuate recent violence against law enforcement officers and an apology does not protect the officers who are targeted. This image portrayed the graphic nature of beheadings used by the radical Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), which is a form of cruel and unusual punishment as well as a crime against humanity. While the First Amendment of the United States Constitution protects offensive images and commentary, these images are intolerable and there is no justification for targeting or assassinating law enforcement officers, who selflessly serve and protect all people. All law enforcement officers deserve the same freedoms and protections to live their lives as any other citizen of New Jersey and this nation. Under the Constitution of the United States of America, speech is protected; however, it is incumbent upon citizens to combat disturbing and offensive speech with more speech to counter it.
AI Summary
This resolution strongly condemns the publication and distribution of images that incite, glorify, or justify violence against law enforcement officers, specifically referencing a controversial social media post by a National Football League (NFL) player that depicted a graphic image reminiscent of ISIS beheading tactics. The resolution acknowledges that while the First Amendment protects offensive speech, some images are considered intolerable, particularly those targeting law enforcement professionals who selflessly serve and protect communities. Recognizing the essential role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety, the resolution argues that while free speech is constitutionally protected, citizens have a responsibility to counter disturbing speech with more speech. The document specifically highlights a July 2016 incident involving an NFL player who shared a violent image of a masked person threatening a police officer, which was subsequently removed with an apology. The resolution calls for the strongest possible condemnation of such hate speech and calls for copies of the resolution to be transmitted to various federal and state officials, including the President, Vice President, members of Congress, and leaders of law enforcement associations.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee (on 01/09/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SR56 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/SR/56_I1.HTM |
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