The bill introduces a new section, 13A-10-9.1, to the Code of Alabama 1975, creating the crime of "swatting." Swatting is defined as knowingly reporting or causing to be reported false or misleading information about a crime or emergency to law enforcement or emergency service providers, with the intent to provoke an emergency response. The bill outlines the penalties for swatting, which vary depending on the severity of the consequences of the false report. A Class A misdemeanor is charged if the false report is of a misdemeanor offense, a Class C felony for a felony offense or emergency, a Class B felony if the response causes physical injury, and a Class A felony if it results in serious physical injury or death.

The bill also addresses the determination of venue for swatting offenses, which can be in any county where the false report was made, received, or responded to. It mandates restitution by the convicted individual to any party that incurs damages due to the false report. The bill specifies that although it may require new or increased local expenditures, it is exempt from further requirements under Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022 because it defines a new crime. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2024. The bill has been enrolled and passed by the Senate on May 2, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-10-9