The bill amends Section 30-39-1 of the New Mexico Statutes to create the crime of "swatting," which involves knowingly making a false or misleading report to a public safety agency about an ongoing emergency or threat of violence with the intent to provoke an immediate response. This new provision categorizes such an act as a fourth degree felony, significantly increasing the penalties for individuals who engage in this behavior. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "public safety agency" to include law enforcement, firefighting, emergency medical services, and local communications facilities that handle 911 service communications.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the existing language regarding false reporting to law enforcement agencies, specifying that it is unlawful for a person to intentionally make a false report alleging a violation of the Criminal Code. Violating this provision is classified as a misdemeanor. The changes aim to enhance public safety by imposing stricter penalties on those who misuse emergency services, thereby deterring swatting incidents and ensuring that resources are available for genuine emergencies.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-20-16
JU substitute: 30-39-1