A Monmouth County town has adopted a ban on "aggressive panhandling," which has been criticized by civil liberty advocates and advocates for people experiencing poverty.

The Asbury Park City Council adopted the ban last month and it went into effect last week. Violators are subject to fines ranging from $100 to $2,000 - plus community service or jail time for repeat offenders.

The ban defines aggressive panhandling as following individuals in a menacing manner, using verbal abuse, or physically blocking someone's path while soliciting funds.

American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey Legal Director Jeanne LoCicero says the ACLU is monitoring the ordinance's impact. 

Local civil rights activist Felecia Simmons says the panhandling ban is a "backhanded way of arresting the homeless."

The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.