Assembly Bill 791 amends Wisconsin statute 256.35 (10) (a) to include the act of intentionally sending false text messages to the 911 emergency number as an offense, alongside the existing prohibition against intentionally dialing 911 under false pretenses. The bill establishes that individuals who engage in this behavior are subject to the same penalties as those who make false emergency calls, which include a fine ranging from $100 to $600 or imprisonment for up to 90 days for a first offense, and a Class H felony for repeat offenses occurring within four years.

This legislative change aims to address the growing concern over misuse of emergency communication systems, particularly as text messaging becomes a more common method of communication. By explicitly including text messages in the statute, the bill seeks to deter individuals from sending false information that could divert emergency resources away from genuine emergencies.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 256.35(10)(a), 256.35