This bill amends N.J.S.2C:28-8 to elevate the crime of impersonating a public servant to a fourth-degree crime under specific circumstances, particularly during a public health emergency or state of emergency. It establishes that a person commits this crime if they falsely pretend to be a contact tracer with the intent to induce another to divulge personal identifying information or to defraud them using this pretended authority. The bill also introduces a new offense that criminalizes defrauding another under the guise of a public health emergency or state of emergency, regardless of whether such an emergency has been officially declared.

The bill defines "personal identifying information" broadly, encompassing various forms of data that can identify an individual, such as names, addresses, social security numbers, and biometric data. Currently, impersonating a public servant is classified as a disorderly persons offense, but under this bill, it would carry a penalty of up to 18 months imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. The sponsors of the bill argue that exploiting crises to commit such crimes not only harms vulnerable populations but also erodes public trust and cooperation during emergencies.