This bill establishes a new offense of impersonating a first responder, which includes assuming a false identity or making misleading statements about one's identity as a first responder with the intent to commit a crime. The offense is classified as a crime of the fourth degree if the underlying offense is a disorderly persons offense or a petty disorderly persons offense. For other underlying crimes, the impersonation offense is graded one degree higher than the most serious underlying crime, with the exception that if the underlying crime is a first-degree crime, the impersonation offense is also classified as a first-degree crime.

The bill aims to address the growing concern of individuals impersonating first responders during emergencies, particularly in light of recent incidents in California. It reflects the need for enhanced penalties in situations where individuals exploit crises, such as wildfires, to commit criminal acts. The bill is designed to protect the integrity of first responders and ensure public safety during emergencies.