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 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. The language clarifies that it is not a defense if the individual did not intend or have the capability to commit the act of terrorism.

Additionally, the bill establishes that a violation of this section is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not less than 5 years, with the possibility of a fine up to $20,000. The definition of "reckless disregard" is also included, describing it as a conscious disregard of a substantial and unjustifiable risk that a communication will be perceived as threatening violence. The bill will take effect 90 days after being enacted, contingent upon the passage of related legislation.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 750.543