#United States #Public Safety #Trenton #Daniels Law #PSIPC

New Jersey Coalition Advocates for the Restoration of Daniel's Law

A coalition of civic-minded businesses known as the Public Safety Information Protection Coalition (PSIPC) is calling on New Jersey state legislators to amend Daniel's Law. This appeal comes in light of modifications introduced in 2023 that have inadvertently compromised the safety of public servants, including judges and law enforcement officers. The coalition aims to rebuild the legal framework to better safeguard these individuals while prioritizing the original intent of the legislation.

The Original Purpose of Daniel's Law

Passed in 2020, Daniel's Law was designed to protect public servants by allowing them to keep their home addresses and phone numbers private. The law was named for Daniel Anderl, the son of U.S. District Judge Esther Salas, who lost his life in a targeted attack. The act represented a significant step in upholding the privacy and security of those who serve the public. However, the recent changes brought about by the 2023 amendments have created unforeseen challenges.

Complications Arising from Legislative Changes

The involvement of Atlas Data Privacy Corporation in promoting these amendments has raised alarm among many stakeholders. Critics argue that the changes have shifted the rights of public servants to third parties, making the compliance process overly complex and in some cases impossible for businesses acting in good faith. This overhaul has not only raised concerns about privacy but has also given rise to unscrupulous practices where companies exploit these changes for profit.

John Molinelli, a spokesperson for PSIPC and former Bergen County prosecutor, emphasized the law's noble purpose, stating, "Daniel's Law serves a noble purpose, but the law is broken." He noted that during his career, he witnessed the risks public servants face and underscored the importance of adequate privacy protections.

Legal Battles and Backlash

A significant recent development occurred when the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals agreed to hear challenges against the amendments made to Daniel's Law. A lower court judge, Harvey Bartle, previously ruled that certain mandatory damage requirements introduced in 2023 were unconstitutional. This ongoing debate highlights the critical need for a reevaluation and restoration of prior protections to ensure that the law is not only effective but also just.

The Case Against Atlas Data Privacy Corporation

Atlas's aggressive legal tactics have further complicated the situation. The corporation has inundated various businesses with massive numbers of nondisclosure requests, creating scenarios where compliance becomes unmanageable. Just a month after the law's modifications, Atlas initiated lawsuits against over 140 businesses, seeking a staggering $2.6 billion due to alleged non-compliance. Critics argue that this push exemplifies a self-serving redesign of the law meant to capitalize on the vulnerabilities it was initially meant to protect against.

The U.S. Third Circuit Court ruling is a pivotal moment; if recognized as a precedent, it may lead to significant reforms within Daniel's Law, possibly restoring its original intent. Molinelli warned that if the law is not amended swiftly, it risks being completely invalidated by the courts.

Commitment from PSIPC

The coalition comprises various stakeholders, including individuals and small businesses in sectors such as real estate, financial services, and legal practices—all relying on data management to function within a digitized economy. PSIPC's commitment extends beyond mere compliance; it actively seeks to amend Daniel's Law to efficiently safeguard public servants' privacy without unjustly penalizing those striving to comply.

Coalition members have voiced their dedication to rectifying the situation and continuing to protect the personal information of those who serve the public. They have expressed their willingness to collaborate on finding functional solutions to ensure the proper execution of the law.

For those seeking more information about the initiative to restore Daniel's Law, detailed insights and updates can be found at www.RestoreDanielsLaw.com. Public engagement is crucial as New Jersey navigates this complex legal landscape and seeks to uphold the rights and safety of its dedicated public servants.