This bill aims to criminalize the use of signal jammers in New Jersey, aligning state law with existing federal regulations that already prohibit such devices. Signal jammers, which can disrupt authorized radio communications, pose significant risks by preventing cell phone usage, blocking Wi-Fi connections, and hindering emergency response efforts. The bill amends current law to include additional prohibitions, specifically targeting interference with radio communications of federally licensed stations and the unauthorized use of scanning receivers capable of intercepting cellular transmissions.

The amendments to the existing law specify that it is a crime of the fourth degree to interfere with any radio communications authorized under federal law or to use scanning receivers that can access cellular frequencies. The bill also clarifies the definition of "radio transmission of energy" in accordance with federal law. Overall, this legislation seeks to enhance public safety by ensuring that signal jammers and similar devices are explicitly prohibited under state law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-23.1, 2C:33-23.2