The proposed bill in New Jersey seeks to strengthen the legal framework surrounding riots and disorderly conduct by amending existing statutes. It redefines participation in a riot as a third-degree crime if firearms or deadly weapons are involved, or if six or more individuals cause property damage or injury. Additionally, the bill introduces a new crime for the promotion of violent, disorderly assemblies, which carries penalties one degree higher than the most serious underlying crime. It also enhances penalties for desecrating public monuments during a riot and establishes that disorderly conduct in public accommodations during a riot will be classified as a fourth-degree crime.

Moreover, the bill amends provisions related to assaults during riots, categorizing such actions as third-degree crimes and removing the presumption of non-imprisonment for first offenses if an object is thrown at a law enforcement officer, mandating a minimum six-month imprisonment. The legislation aims to address crowd-based destructive behavior by elevating the severity of offenses related to obstructing public passages and desecrating venerated objects during riots, as well as introducing harsher penalties for aggravated assault resulting in bodily injury. Overall, the bill reflects a comprehensive effort to enhance public safety and accountability for actions contributing to civil unrest.