The bill amends Section 30-20-12 of the New Mexico Statutes to expand the definition of unlawful communication intended to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, annoy, or offend. The term "telephone" is replaced with "electronic communication," which encompasses various forms of communication including wire line, cable, wireless or cellular calls, social media posts, text messages, instant messages, and emails. The bill establishes that it is unlawful for any person to use electronic communication to engage in such behaviors, and it specifies that the use of obscene, lewd, or profane language, or making threats, serves as prima facie evidence of intent to commit these offenses.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any offense committed through electronic communication is considered to have occurred at either the origin or the reception point of the communication. It stipulates that violations of this section are generally classified as misdemeanors, but repeat offenders may face felony charges. The bill also introduces definitions for "electronic communication" and "social media," providing a clear framework for understanding the types of communication covered under this law.

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