The bill amends Section 30-20-12 of the New Mexico Statutes to expand the definition of unlawful communication to include electronic communication, thereby updating the language from "telephone" to "electronic communication." This change reflects the evolving nature of communication methods and aims to address behaviors that terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, annoy, or offend individuals through various electronic means. The bill specifies that it is unlawful for any person to use electronic communication to engage in such behaviors, including the use of obscene language or threats, and establishes that such actions can be considered a misdemeanor or a fourth-degree felony for repeat offenders.

Additionally, the bill introduces definitions for "electronic communication" and "social media," clarifying that electronic communication encompasses various forms such as phone calls, text messages, social media posts, and emails. It also outlines that any offense committed through electronic communication is deemed to have occurred at either the origin or the reception point of the communication. The inclusion of these definitions and the broadening of the scope of the law aim to enhance protections against harassment and intimidation in the digital age.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-20-12
JC substitute: 30-20-12