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 regulations that make it a crime of the fourth degree for individuals to possess or control such radios while committing or attempting to commit a crime, including during immediate flight from the crime scene. The overall intent of the bill is to enhance the legal framework surrounding the misuse of emergency communication systems and to protect the integrity of these critical services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-22