Increases minimum civil fine for harassing person taking wildlife and increases criminal penalty for subsequent offenses.

This bill (A4152) increases the minimum civil fine for harassing someone lawfully taking wildlife from $100 to $250 and enhances penalties for repeat offenders. It directly affects individuals who harass hunters or wildlife enthusiasts during lawful activities. The key change is raising the penalty for second or subsequent offenses from a petty disorderly persons offense (up to 30 days jail or $500 fine) to a disorderly persons offense (up to six months jail or $1,000 fine). The bill also allows victims to seek civil damages for related expenses like license fees or equipment costs. It was introduced in the Assembly on April 4, 2024.