New Jersey lawmakers would have to put away internet devices

Lawmakers would be barred from possessing internet-capable devices or using them for tasks unrelated to pending legislative business. The rule would cover New Jersey lawmakers during quorum calls, voting sessions, and committee proceedings, from the call to order until adjournment. The ban would start immediately if the bill becomes law.

The state would install secure lockers, and lawmakers would deposit their internet-capable devices before entering covered rooms. Lockers would go outside each entrance to the Assembly and Senate chambers in the State House and each committee room in the State House Annex. Lawmakers would deposit every device they have before entering a chamber for a covered proceeding or a committee room where they serve. Security staff would lock the lockers until the proceeding ends. Lockers would be due within 60 days after the bill takes effect. The deposit rule would begin once they are installed.

Lawmakers who break the rules would commit a disorderly persons offense and face additional penalties. These penalties would apply to New Jersey lawmakers who violate the device rules. A later violation would trigger a suspension. During it, the member would report to the State House each day and could not speak on the floor. The bill does not say how long that suspension would last. The seating penalty would last at least one hour after adjournment. The penalties would start immediately if the bill becomes law.