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Bill

A 563

Provides that crime of official misconduct involving disclosure of domestic violence or sexual assault victim's personal information is second degree crime.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Egan and 6 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill elevates unauthorized disclosure of domestic violence/sexual assault victims' information by public officials to a second-degree crime, increasing penalties to strengthen victim protection.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · A 563

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 563 creates a new criminal offense in New Jersey that classifies the unauthorized disclosure of domestic violence or sexual assault victims' personal information by public officials as a second-degree crime. Currently, such disclosures may fall under general official misconduct statutes with potentially lower penalties. This bill elevates the severity of the offense to prioritize victim safety and privacy.

Why is this important

Victims of domestic violence and sexual assault often face heightened danger if their identities and locations are exposed. Public officials—including law enforcement, prosecutors, and court personnel—have access to sensitive victim information, and unauthorized disclosure can endanger lives, deter victims from reporting crimes, and undermine investigations. Creating a specific, elevated penalty aims to deter officials from mishandling this information and hold them accountable for breaches of trust.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: The bill may need clearer language defining what constitutes "personal information" (address, phone number, place of employment, etc.) and what counts as "disclosure" to avoid unintended consequences or inconsistent enforcement
  • Intent requirements: Questions about whether the offense requires intentional/knowing disclosure versus reckless conduct could significantly affect how prosecutors pursue charges and how broadly the law applies
  • Prosecutorial discretion concerns: Second-degree classification carries substantial penalties (5-10 years imprisonment); some may argue this is disproportionate for inadvertent disclosures or question whether lower classifications with restitution might better serve victims

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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