New Jersey bill A618 establishes penalties for false alarms involving places of worship.

New Jersey bill A618 amends existing law to establish a second degree crime for false public alarms involving places of worship. The bill defines "place of worship" as a building capable of seating more than 50 people used primarily for public or private worship by a recognized religious sect. Penalties include a civil penalty of at least $5,000 or the actual costs incurred by emergency services, whichever is higher. The bill also increases penalties for false alarms that result in serious bodily injury or death, or occur during a declared emergency.

New Jersey bill A618 establishes penalties for false alarms involving places of worship.

New Jersey bill A618 amends existing law to establish a second degree crime for false public alarms involving places of worship. The bill defines "place of worship" as a building capable of seating more than 50 people used primarily for public or private worship by a recognized religious sect. Penalties include a civil penalty of at least $5,000 or the actual costs incurred by emergency services, whichever is higher. The bill also increases penalties for false alarms that result in serious bodily injury or death, or occur during a declared emergency.