The bill amends section 543m of the Michigan penal code regarding terrorist threats and false reports of terrorism. It specifies that a person is guilty of making a terrorist threat or a false report of terrorism if they either threaten to commit an act of terrorism and communicate that threat knowing it would be viewed as threatening violence, or do so with reckless disregard for the substantial risk that the communication would be perceived as a threat. The language also clarifies that knowingly making a false report of terrorism constitutes a violation, regardless of the defendant's intent or capability to commit the act.

Additionally, the bill establishes that a violation of this section is classified as a felony, punishable by up to 20 years of imprisonment or a fine of up to $20,000, or both. The amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding threats of terrorism and ensure that individuals who make such threats or false reports are held accountable. The changes will take effect 90 days after the bill is enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 750.543