Senate Bill 650 aims to enhance penalties for crimes committed by individuals acting as agents of foreign governments or terrorist organizations, particularly when such actions are intended to silence or punish individuals for their political views. The bill introduces a new classification of transnational repression, which includes actions taken to harass, intimidate, or impose control over dissidents, activists, journalists, and other political opponents. Under this legislation, if a crime is committed under these circumstances, the classification of the crime will be elevated by one level, with specific provisions for different types of felonies and misdemeanors.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Class E felony for individuals who engage in the enforcement of foreign laws without the necessary federal or state approval, imposing a mandatory minimum prison term of three years and a fine of at least $10,000 for such violations. The Department of Justice is tasked with developing training programs for law enforcement, maintaining a list of countries and organizations involved in transnational repression, and creating public awareness campaigns to help identify and report such cases. The bill also amends existing statutes to include the new penalty enhancer for transnational repression crimes.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 973.01(2)(c)2.a, 973.01