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HF 2630

Crime of unauthorized computer access expanded to include accessing a computer without penetrating security system.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Peggy Scott

HF 2630 broadens unauthorized computer access to criminalize merely accessing a computer without penetrating a security system.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Public Safety Finance and Policy
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Bill Summary · HF 2630

HF 2630 — Summary

HF 2630 expands the crime of unauthorized computer access to include simply accessing a computer without penetrating a security system. The bill is in its introduction stage and has been referred to the Public Safety Finance and Policy committee.

Purpose and scope

  • The bill aims to broaden the existing offense of unauthorized computer access. Specifically, it would extend coverage to situations in which a person accesses a computer without penetrating or bypassing a security system.
  • This change signals an intent to criminalize a wider set of unauthorized access actions, not limited to cases where security barriers are bypassed.

Key provisions (based on the bill’s title and introductory status)

  • Expands the scope of “unauthorized computer access” to include situations where there is unauthenticated or unauthorized entry into a computer system without the need to demonstrate security system penetration.
  • The precise definitions, scope of “computer” (including devices, networks, or data), and any exceptions or defenses would be defined in the full text of the bill.
  • Penalties, sentencing ranges, and enforcement mechanisms would be specified in the enacted language; these details are not provided in the available summary.

Who would be affected

  • Individuals who access a computer without authorization, even if they do not penetrate a security system.
  • Entities that own, operate, or maintain computer systems, networks, or digital data could see changes in enforcement or liability exposure.
  • Potentially broader implications for employees, students, contractors, or others who access systems without permission, depending on definitions and exceptions in the final language.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: March 24, 2025.
  • Status: Introduction and first reading; referred to Public Safety Finance and Policy.
  • Related legislation: SF 703 is the companion bill in the Senate.
  • Next steps would typically include committee hearings, potential amendments, and subsequent floor votes before passage or referral to other committees.

Additional considerations

  • The full text would clarify definitions, scope, exemptions (e.g., legitimate cybersecurity testing, authorized access by IT staff, law enforcement activities), and any distinctions between criminal penalties and civil remedies.
  • Stakeholders may evaluate concerns about overbreadth, potential chilling effects, and alignment with existing computer-related offenses.

For readers seeking precise provisions, penalties, and definitions, the full bill text upon committee refinement will provide the authoritative details.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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