The proposed bill establishes investigative subpoena authority for the attorney general or their designee to gather business records relevant to criminal investigations, particularly those involving internet crimes against children or human trafficking. It introduces definitions for key terms such as "investigative subpoena," "provider," and "reasonable cause." The bill allows the attorney general to apply for judicial approval from a magistrate or circuit judge in Hughes County to issue subpoenas, which can be enforced statewide. The judges are granted the authority to approve subpoenas based on a demonstration of reasonable cause, and the subpoenas will compel providers to produce specific business records without notifying the account holders.
Additionally, the bill outlines the obligations of providers to comply with subpoenas and the limitations on the use and disclosure of the obtained records, ensuring they are used solely for law enforcement purposes. It also provides legal protection for providers against lawsuits for complying with subpoenas. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the ability of law enforcement to investigate serious crimes while safeguarding individual privacy rights.