The bill amends section 12.1-17-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, which addresses harassment. It expands the definition of harassment to include new forms of communication that can be considered offensive. Specifically, it adds a provision that makes it an offense to communicate an individual's personal identifying information through writing, electronic communication, or by disclosing it on public internet sites or forums. Additionally, the bill clarifies that harassment offenses committed via electronic communication can be prosecuted in either the location where the communication was made or where it was received.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the classification of offenses related to harassment. It specifies that offenses under certain subdivisions, including the new provision regarding personal identifying information, are classified as class A misdemeanors, while other offenses remain class B misdemeanors. The bill also establishes that initiating communication with emergency services with the intent to annoy or harass is an offense, and those convicted may be liable for costs incurred from unnecessary emergency responses. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding harassment, particularly in the context of electronic communication.

Statutes affected:
Adopted by the House Judiciary Committee: 12.1-17-07
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 12.1-17-07