New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5759

Introduced
11/30/23  

Caption

Requires notification to collective bargaining unit of law enforcement officer prior to release of certain information to the public.

Impact

If enacted, A5759 would impact state laws related to law enforcement protocols by enhancing transparency while also introducing a layer of protection for police officers. By mandating notification to the collective bargaining units, the bill seeks to address concerns among law enforcement personnel about the immediate public disclosure of their identities in sensitive situations. This could lead to a more structured approach to the release of information, which aims to balance public interest with the rights and interests of law enforcement officers.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5759, sponsored by Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo, aims to amend existing laws regarding the public disclosure of information related to law enforcement officers, particularly in instances where persons die during encounters with police or while in custody. The primary provision of this bill requires that the collective bargaining unit representing law enforcement officers must be notified prior to the release of specific information to the public. This includes the identity of arresting and investigating officers as well as recordings from body worn cameras and mobile video recording systems concerning such incidents.

Contention

The bill has sparked debates among lawmakers and the public. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step in recognizing the rights of law enforcement officers, while opponents contend that it may hinder transparency and accountability in police conduct. Specifically, there is concern that such measures could delay or complicate the public's access to information in cases where police involvement leads to fatalities, potentially stifling timely oversight and scrutiny of law enforcement actions.

Companion Bills

NJ S4238

Same As Requires notification to collective bargaining unit of law enforcement officer prior to release of certain information to the public.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1047

Requires notification to collective bargaining unit of law enforcement officer prior to release of certain information to public.

NJ A1820

Requires official inspection facility employees covered by collective bargaining agreement to be offered employment following contract renewal or award of new contract; requires collective bargaining agreement to be binding in certain cases.

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 SF537

Notification to student employees regarding membership in a collective bargaining unit requirement

NJ S2775

Provides police training course credit to prior military law enforcement officer seeking employment as law enforcement officer in NJ.

NJ S1328

Public Employee Collective Bargaining

NJ S1175

Requires counties to establish crisis intervention services programs for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and sheriff's officers.

NJ HB715

Labor and employment; collective bargaining by certain constitutional officers.

NJ A3473

Requires certain information to be included in SHBP claims experience data provided to certain public employers.

NJ A1066

Permits certain local units to enter into project labor agreements for public works projects below $5 million threshold.

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