This bill amends existing New Jersey statutes to explicitly include virtual currency and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in the definition of "gift" for public officials. The new legal language states that "gift shall include any form of virtual currency and non-fungible tokens (NFTs)." This change applies to various sections of the law, including those governing state officers, local government employees, and school officials, thereby broadening the scope of what constitutes a gift that public officials are prohibited from accepting.

As a result of this amendment, public officials will be barred from accepting virtual currency and NFTs as gifts, aligning with the intent to maintain ethical standards and prevent potential conflicts of interest in public service. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage, reinforcing the commitment to transparency and integrity within New Jersey's public sector.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:13D-13, 40A:9-22.3, 18A:12-23