Broadens offenses of riot and disorderly conduct; enhances penalties for public monument destruction; addresses riot victim assaults; creates crime of promotion of violent, disorderly assembly.

This New Jersey bill (A4610) expands the definition of "riot" to include groups using weapons or causing property damage, raising it to a third-degree crime. It creates a new felony for damaging public monuments (like statues or war memorials) during a riot and increases penalties for assaults on first responders, school staff, or emergency personnel during such events. The bill also strengthens existing disorderly conduct laws by clarifying when gatherings become illegal (e.g., obstructing highways) and adds a new offense for promoting violent assemblies. These changes directly affect individuals participating in or inciting public disturbances, with specific focus on protecting monuments, emergency workers, and school staff. The bill remains pending in the Assembly Judiciary Committee as of June 20, 2024.