The bill amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance the legal framework surrounding the offense of riot. It establishes that a person is guilty of riot, classified as a felony of the third degree, if they participate in disorderly conduct with two or more individuals with specific intents, such as committing a felony or using a deadly weapon. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that criminalizes the organization of a riot, making it a felony of the third degree for individuals who knowingly organize, control, or finance a riot involving two or more people.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if the organized riot results in the death of an individual, the organizer will be charged with a felony of the first degree. Definitions are provided for key terms such as "controls," "finances," and "organizes," clarifying the actions that constitute these offenses. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1091 (Jul 31, 2025): 18-5501