The proposed bill significantly amends New Jersey's laws concerning riots and related offenses by broadening the definition of a riot and introducing new crimes such as mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication. Under the new definition, a riot occurs when three or more individuals engage in a violent public disturbance with the intent to assist each other, leading to injury or property damage. The bill establishes enhanced penalties for aggravated riot, which includes participation with 25 or more individuals or causing serious bodily injury. It also introduces the crime of inciting a riot, with penalties for aggravated incitement that results in serious harm or property damage. Additionally, the bill clarifies that these new definitions and penalties do not infringe upon constitutionally protected activities, such as peaceful protests.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws related to criminal mischief, burglary, and theft, imposing stricter penalties for offenses committed during riots, particularly when law enforcement equipment is involved. It establishes that burglary during a riot is a second-degree crime and mandates that individuals arrested for theft during a riot must remain in custody until they appear before a judge. The legislation also imposes civil liability on municipalities for failing to equip law enforcement adequately to respond to riots and creates an affirmative defense for damages sustained by participants in a riot. Overall, the bill aims to enhance public safety and accountability during civil unrest while ensuring the protection of lawful protests.