This bill amends current law to prohibit the use of emergency communication receivers for financial gain unless authorized by the Department of Law and Public Safety. Specifically, it introduces a new provision stating that individuals are not allowed to use radios capable of receiving messages from police, fire, or emergency medical communications systems for pecuniary gain. Violating this provision would result in a disorderly person offense, which carries penalties of up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing prohibitions against possessing or controlling such radios while committing or attempting to commit a crime, including during immediate flight from a crime scene. The amendment clarifies the legal consequences for unauthorized use of emergency communication receivers, thereby enhancing the protection of these critical communication systems from exploitation for profit. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-22