Muñoz Bill Aims at First Responders Who Post Victim Photos on Social Media

Editor's Note: The following is a press release from the Assembly Republican Press Office.

to the public without their consent has been signed into law by Governor Christie.

“An accident victim and their family endure enough trauma without having their misfortune publicized without their consent,” said Muñoz, R-Union, Morris and Somerset. “They deserve the courtesy and respect of privacy from everyone who comes to their aid.

“First responders play a crucial role in saving lives and are an invaluable resource in our communities,” she continued. “However, there is a clear distinction between taking photos for investigative purposes and posting them on social media. I would like to thank Cathy’s family for their diligent pursuit of this legislation and their advocacy on raising the importance of the sensitivity that victims and their families deserve.”

            The bill, A-789/S-199, provides that a first responder who fails to obtain prior written consent from an accident victim, or the person’s next-of-kin if the victim cannot provide consent, is guilty of a disorderly person offense. The bill does permit a first responder to disseminate a photograph or video recording for legitimate law enforcement, public safety or insurance purposes.           

Muñoz originally sponsored the legislation in 2010 after Cathy Bates-Lomauro, age 40, was killed in an auto accident on Oct. 23, 2009. Muñoz introduced the bill after the victim’s sister contacted her expressing concern about the disregard for the privacy of the victim and her family.

          A first responder is defined as a law enforcement officer, paid or volunteer firefighter, or other paid or volunteer person who has been trained to provide emergency medical services.