New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1061

Introduced
1/11/22  
Refer
1/11/22  

Caption

Requires certain public venues and places of worship to submit emergency plans to law enforcement agencies for purpose of preparing for mass casualty and active shooter events.

Impact

The legislation impacts existing laws by extending requirements that previously applied only to larger sports and entertainment facilities to include movie theaters and places of worship. Specifically, any venue that can seat over 500 individuals, including churches and synagogues, must file an annual emergency operations plan that includes building layouts and access routes. This change reinforces the state’s commitment to public safety and preparedness in communities, potentially saving lives in crisis situations. Notably, the requirement that these plans are not public records aims to protect sensitive information about the venues' emergency strategies from being exploited.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1061 aims to enhance public safety by mandating that certain public venues, specifically sports and entertainment facilities, movie theaters, and places of worship, develop and submit emergency operations plans to local law enforcement. This requirement is designed to prepare these venues for potential mass casualty and active shooter events, reflecting growing concerns about public safety in the wake of various high-profile incidents. By requiring a collaborative approach among local fire, law enforcement, and emergency response agencies, the bill seeks to ensure that venues have well-structured plans for emergencies, thereby improving response times and overall safety for attendees.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a necessary step toward improving safety, it may face scrutiny regarding the administrative burden placed on smaller venues that may lack the resources to develop comprehensive emergency plans. Critics may argue that the requirement could be too onerous for smaller places of worship or movie theaters, which may struggle to comply without assistance or additional funding. Additionally, there could be concerns about the adequacy of the state’s support for local agencies in implementing these changes, highlighting the vital balance between enhancing safety and ensuring accessibility for all venues.

Companion Bills

NJ S721

Same As Requires certain public venues and places of worship to submit emergency plans to law enforcement agencies for purpose of preparing for mass casualty and active shooter events.

Previously Filed As

NJ SB2862

Relating to active shooter events and other emergencies, including certain accreditations of law enforcement agencies that respond to such emergencies.

NJ A618

Concerns false public alarms involving places of worship.

NJ A1933

Authorizes Class Three special law enforcement officers to provide security in places of religious worship; makes certain clarifications concerning their use in nonpublic schools.

NJ A3076

Requires AG to study use of artificial intelligence for certain law enforcement purposes and issue report.

NJ A596

Directs public utility to reimburse municipality for police services required for safe completion of public utility project no later than 60 days after municipality submits bill to public utility.

NJ A623

Requires certain actions prior to withholding nonpublic school aid for nonpublic school's failure to meet certain health and safety requirements.

NJ S2409

Authorizes Class Three special law enforcement officers to provide security in places of religious worship; requires nonpublic security aid be used for Class Three officers upon request of nonpublic school.

NJ S3114

Requires law enforcement officer to reveal facial identity during certain public interactions and to present sufficient identification prior to arresting or detaining person.

NJ SB287

Prohibiting law enforcement agencies and officers from participating in immigration enforcement in places of religious worship, elementary and secondary schools and hospitals.

NJ A3805

Establishes process for submittal and publication of proposed revisions to Governor's budget recommendations and requires publication of proposals by June 1 annually.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.