ASSEMBLY STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 5258

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 15, 2026

      The Assembly State and Local Government Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 5258.

      As reported, this bill authorizes candidates and officeholders to use campaign funds for the reasonable costs of security measures for the candidate or officeholder, members of their family who reside in the same household, and staff, provided that the security measures address ongoing dangers or threats that would not otherwise exist were it not for the individual’s status or duties as a candidate or officeholder.

      Under the bill, candidates, candidate committees, joint candidate committees, and legislative leadership committees can make expenditures for:

      (1)  non-structural security devices, such as security hardware, locks, alarm systems, motion detectors, and security camera systems;

      (2)  structural security devices, such as wiring, lighting, gates, doors, and fencing, so long as such devices are intended solely to provide security and not to improve the property or increase its value;

      (3)  security personnel and services that are bona fide, legitimate, and professional; and

      (4)  cybersecurity software, devices, and services.

      Expenditures cannot be made for:

      (1)  the purchase of firearms or ammunition;

      (2)  payments to family members or entities owned or operated by family members; or

      (3)  home improvements not expressly authorized by this bill.