The bill amends Section 11-35-18 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-35, titled "Public Utilities," to broaden the scope of the crime of false reporting. The new language inserted into the law expands the definition of false reporting to include not only the false reporting of the existence of explosives or other dangerous substances but also false warnings or threats of shootings or other dangerous events. The bill specifies that such false reports, warnings, or threats that cause terror, anxiety, unrest, fear, or personal discomfort, or that prompt an evacuation, lockdown, or other law enforcement response, are felonies punishable by up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new subsection (b) that outlines considerations for the court when making bail determinations for individuals charged under this expanded definition of false reporting. The court may take into account factors such as the danger posed by the defendant to individuals, the community, or themselves. The court is also empowered to impose reasonable conditions or orders, including extreme risk protection orders, no trespass orders for certain institutions, mental health assessments and/or referrals for treatment, and substance abuse counseling. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7972: 11-35-18