The Council of Middle Township, New Jersey has passed an ordinance that will require panhandlers to carry a permit.

The Council of Middle Township, New Jersey has passed an ordinance that will require panhandlers to carry a permit.

Specifically targeting those who engage in aggressive tactics, the permit prohibits people looking for money from approaching people in their cars, hanging out near ATMs, and hitting up those waiting for buses and trains.

Should a person be caught doing any of those things and unable to produce a permit they will be subject to a fine of up to 1 thousand dollars and 30 days in jail by their third offense.

The police chief said that individuals who go about their alms seeking in a subtle, gracious, and peaceful manner will not be approached by officials.

What’s the dividing line between the two?

In the ordinance aggressive is specified as, “Speaking to or following a person in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to fear bodily harm or the commission of a criminal act...”

The township police chief further explained that polite and courteous requests for money are protected under the First Amendment.

That acknowledgment has left some wondering if the ordinance could stand up in court should anyone make a case against it.