Summary of New Jersey S 3344 (Introduced Version)

Note: The bill's introduced text focuses on a compulsive gambling public awareness campaign, not cyber security. The bill’s formal title in the current record appears inconsistent with the enacted text provided. The summary below reflects the introduced version’s substantive provisions.

Overview

• Bill Number: S 3344
• Title (introduced): Establishes a commission to study cyber security in the state (appears inconsistent with the text below)
• Introduced: June 3, 2024
• Status: Referred to Internet and Technology (2025 re-referral noted)
• Primary Sponsor: Kevin S. Parker; Co-sponsor: Luis R. Sepúlveda
• Related bills: A 5363 (companion), and several prior-session companions

Important note: The introduced content in the bill text establishes a compulsive gambling public awareness campaign rather than a cyber security commission. It appears the official title may not align with the current text.

Purpose and intent

• Create a public awareness campaign about the risks of gambling and the resources available for compulsive gamblers in New Jersey.
• Coordinate with the state health department to ensure health-organization alignment and relevant resources are included.
• Use multiple media channels to inform the public about gambling risks, consequences, addiction rates, and available assistance.

Key provisions

1) Establishment and scope
- The Director of the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, must establish a compulsive gambling public awareness campaign.
- Campaign content must cover:
- The inherent risks of gambling
- Potential consequences of gambling
- The rate of gambling addiction
- Resources available to compulsive gamblers in New Jersey

2) Implementation and media outreach
- The campaign must be developed and implemented through a broad range of media outlets, including:
- Statewide newspapers, radio, public service announcements
- Social media
- Television advertisements
- Any other outlets deemed appropriate by the Commissioner of Health
- Implementation deadline: no later than 180 days after enactment (date pending final coding of the act).

3) Reporting
- The DGE Director must report to the Governor and to the Legislature (per statutory reporting authority) no later than 24 months after the act’s effective date, detailing activities and accomplishments of the campaign.

4) Funding and resources
- The DGE may accept grants or in-kind contributions from the federal government, its agencies, or from foundations/other entities to support the campaign.
- Specific appropriation: $200,000 from the General Fund to the Division of Gaming Enforcement (within the Department of Law and Public Safety) to develop, implement, and sustain the campaign.

5) Effective date
- The act takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Fiscal and administrative impact

• Amount: $200,000 appropriation from the General Fund to support development and implementation.
• Potential ongoing costs beyond the initial appropriation are not specified; the ability to accept external grants provides flexibility for expanded funding.

Timeline highlights

• Implementation deadline: within 180 days of enactment.
• Reporting deadline: within 24 months after the act’s effective date.

Who is affected

• Primary: Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE)
• Coordinating partner: Department/Commissioner of Health
• Indirectly: General public and individuals seeking information about gambling resources in New Jersey

Notes for readers

• The bill’s posted title about cyber security appears to be inconsistent with the introduced text, which centers on compulsive gambling awareness. Verification of the bill’s current title and text in the official docket is advisable for accuracy.