This bill amends existing laws regarding false accusations of criminal acts in Iowa. It establishes that a person who knowingly reports false information to public safety entities, or falsely claims a criminal act occurred, commits a class D felony if the reported act falls under specific categories, including forcible felonies and acts of terrorism. Additionally, if such false reporting results in serious bodily injury or death, the offender may be charged with a class C felony. The bill also introduces a provision that allows individuals who persist in making false allegations after they have been proven false to be charged with malicious prosecution.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of malicious prosecution in Code section 720.6, changing the offense from a serious misdemeanor to an aggravated misdemeanor. This change increases the potential penalties, allowing for confinement of up to two years and fines ranging from $855 to $8,540. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal consequences for individuals who engage in false reporting and malicious prosecution.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 718.6