Bill > S4140

This bill, known as the "Honoring and Listening to Our First Responders Act" or the "HALO Act," establishes a new disorderly persons offense for individuals who interfere with first responders' official duties. The bill defines first responders as law enforcement officers, paid or volunteer firefighters, and paid or volunteer members of emergency response organizations. Under this legislation, a person commits an offense if they knowingly approach or remain within 25 feet of a first responder after being instructed to maintain distance, with the purpose of either obstructing the first responder's duties or threatening, intimidating, or harassing them. The offense is punishable by up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Importantly, the bill clarifies that prosecution under this act does not prevent prosecution under other applicable laws, providing additional legal flexibility to address interference with first responders. The act is designed to protect emergency personnel by creating a legal mechanism to prevent deliberate disruption of their critical work and ensuring their safety while performing official duties.

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https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4140