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Governor Phil Murphy has vetoed a bill aimed at curbing disturbances on Jersey Shore beaches, citing concerns over First Amendment rights. The bill, which passed unanimously in both legislative chambers, sought to increase penalties for inciting public brawls and was a response to fights that erupted last summer. Murphy praised the intent of the bill but expressed worries that its language could infringe on free speech and assembly rights. He suggested changes to ensure that the bill does not criminalize lawful activities like wearing masks for medical, religious, or expressive purposes.
The bill proposed fourth-degree criminal charges for those inciting public brawls, with penalties including up to 18 months in prison and a $10,000 fine. Murphy's conditional veto allows lawmakers to revise the bill and resubmit it. According to the New Jersey Monitor, civil rights advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey, supported the veto, emphasizing the need to protect constitutional rights.
State lawmakers have about three weeks to address Murphy's concerns before the Memorial Day holiday. NJ.com reports that the bill's chief sponsor, Senator Paul Moriarty, plans to incorporate the governor's recommendations and resubmit the bill for approval.