Bill > A306

This bill amends several New Jersey statutes to increase penalties for certain crimes when they are committed during a declared state of emergency. Specifically, it elevates the crime of robbery to a first-degree offense if committed during a state of emergency, and burglary becomes a second-degree offense under the same circumstances, regardless of whether bodily injury is inflicted or a weapon is displayed. Additionally, unlicensed entry into structures and defiant trespass become third-degree and disorderly persons offenses, respectively, during a state of emergency. Theft offenses are also upgraded, with theft committed during a state of emergency becoming a second-degree crime, and shoplifting also becoming a second-degree crime if committed during a state of emergency. Furthermore, riot and failure to disperse during a riot become third-degree and fourth-degree crimes, respectively, when a state of emergency is in effect. Interference with transportation, which can range from a disorderly persons offense to a second-degree crime depending on the severity of the outcome, becomes a second-degree crime if committed during a state of emergency. Finally, intercepting or using information from emergency communications to facilitate a crime or interfere with emergency operations, normally a fourth-degree crime, becomes a third-degree crime during a state of emergency.