Lawmakers in New Jersey are advancing legislation aimed at penalizing health care professionals who spread false health claims. The bill, introduced by Assemblyman Herb Conaway (D-Burlington), passed the Assembly Health Committee on Monday with a 5-3 vote, split along party lines.

The proposal would allow state licensing boards to charge health care practitioners with professional misconduct for disseminating misinformation. The bill’s intent is to address the growing spread of misinformation following the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Conaway. He noted that misinformation has hindered public health efforts.

The bill defines misinformation as any health-related claim that is false and contradicts contemporary scientific consensus, though it allows each professional board to set its own penalties for violations.

Critics, including anti-vaccine activists, argue the measure would stifle medical freedom, potentially preventing doctors from exploring alternative treatments. Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger (R-Monmouth) called it an infringement on free speech, likening the bill to Cold War-era restrictions. Others, like Assemblywoman Margie Donlon (D-Monmouth), who abstained from the vote, expressed concern over the bill’s definitions and potential impact on evolving medical practices.

The bill mirrors a similar California law that was blocked by a federal judge for being too vague. Despite the opposition, the bill moves closer to a vote in the full Assembly.