The bill H. 3531 aims to amend Section 23-47-80 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which addresses penalties for 911 call abuse, including false reporting. The amendment specifically expands the definition of 911 call abuse to include the act of texting 911 in a manner that disrupts emergency services. The updated language clarifies that it is unlawful to text 911 in such a volume that it interferes with emergency service operations, in addition to existing prohibitions against using profane language, annoying or harassing dispatchers, failing to hang up intentionally, and making false reports.

The penalties for violating this section remain unchanged, classifying such offenses as misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to two hundred dollars, or both. The bill is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor, reinforcing the state's commitment to maintaining the integrity and functionality of emergency services.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 23-47-80
Latest Version: 23-47-80