NJ A4522

Creates a legal presumption that displaying a noose, Nazi symbol, or Confederate flag during commission of a crime indicates the defendant knew their conduct would cause bias intimidation based on race, religion, or other protected characteristics.

Imposes mandatory enhanced penalties for bias intimidation involving these symbols: $20,000 fine and completion of a course on the history of hate symbols for first conviction; additional six months of parole ineligibility for subsequent convictions.

Adds bias intimidation and official deprivation of civil rights to the list of crimes that trigger automatic pension forfeiture for convicted public employees in New Jersey.

Amends existing bias intimidation law (N.J.S.A.2C:16-1) which already makes bias-motivated crimes one degree higher than the underlying offense, with first-degree bias intimidation carrying 15-30 years imprisonment.