The bill amends existing New Jersey legislation to enhance the confidentiality protections for probation officers and their immediate family members. It introduces a definition for "probation officer" and establishes that their home addresses and personal identifying information are confidential and not subject to public disclosure, except under specific circumstances involving government agencies or legal requirements. The bill expands existing provisions that protect the personal information of judicial and law enforcement officers to include probation officers, thereby aiming to safeguard their privacy and safety.

Additionally, the bill creates the Office of Information Privacy within the Department of Community Affairs to manage requests for the nondisclosure of home addresses for covered individuals, which now includes probation officers. It outlines the process for authorized individuals to request nondisclosure and establishes civil liability for violations of these provisions. The bill also clarifies the roles of authorized persons acting on behalf of covered individuals and maintains the right for aggrieved parties to seek civil action for violations. Overall, the legislation reflects a commitment to protecting the identities of public officials involved in the criminal justice system while ensuring that necessary information remains accessible to authorized entities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 47:1A-1.1, 47:1A-5, 47:1B-1, 2C:20-31.1, 56:8-166.1