17:36-21 - Violations;  penalty;  collection

17:36-21.  Violations;  penalty;  collection
    A person who knowingly:

    a.  Refuses to release information,

     b.  Fails to notify the county prosecutor of a fire loss of which there is reason to believe that it was caused by other than accidental means, or

     c.  Fails to hold information in confidence, as required by this act,

     is liable to a penalty of not more than $250.00, which may be collected or  enforced in a summary manner under  "the penalty enforcement law" (N.J.S. 2A:58-1 et seq.).  The proceedings may be brought by authorized agency which has not received information or has not been notified regarding a fire loss, or  an insurer or person which has been injured by a failure to keep information  confidential, or the State.  If a money judgment is rendered against the  defendant, it shall be paid to the plaintiff.  A reasonable and good faith  effort to comply with the provisions of this act shall be a defense to an  alleged violation of this act.

     L.1981, c. 45, s. 8, eff. Feb. 19, 1981.