The bill aims to enhance public safety by increasing criminal penalties for swatting, which involves making false emergency calls that prompt a police response. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically sections 244.05 and 609.78. Notably, it introduces a new provision under section 609.78, subdivision 2a, which establishes that individuals found guilty of reporting fictitious emergencies that result in serious injury can face imprisonment for up to 15 years and/or a fine of up to $30,000. This is a significant increase from the previous maximum penalty of ten years and a $20,000 fine. Additionally, the bill modifies penalties for swatting incidents targeting specific officials, increasing the maximum imprisonment from one year to ten years and the fine from $5,000 to $20,000.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 244.05, subdivision 4, to include swatting as a crime that requires a minimum term of imprisonment before an inmate can be considered for supervised release. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025, and they will apply to crimes committed on or after that date. Overall, the bill seeks to deter swatting by imposing stricter penalties and ensuring that offenders serve significant time before being eligible for release.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 244.05, 609.78