This bill establishes a new disorderly persons offense for individuals who wear masks with the intent to conceal their identity while committing another crime or offense in public places. A person can only be charged under this provision if they are also charged with an underlying crime under Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes and were wearing a mask at the time of the offense. The bill outlines specific exceptions to this prohibition, including activities related to Halloween, participation in public parades or exhibitions, wearing masks for weather protection, religious head coverings, and medical purposes.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that a conviction for this new offense will not merge with any other criminal offense, meaning that sentences for both can be served consecutively rather than being combined. Violating this provision is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which carries penalties of up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.