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AB 352

Crimes: criminal threats.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Blanca Pacheco

California law AB 352 refines criminal threat definitions and enforcement mechanisms to clarify prosecution standards for threatening communications.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 554, Statutes of 2025.
#crimes #criminalthreats
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Bill Summary · AB 352

Legislative bill overview

AB 352 modifies California's criminal threats statute by adjusting the legal definitions and penalties associated with threatening communications. The bill passed with unanimous support in both chambers and was signed into law in October 2025. The specific amendments refine how prosecutors and courts evaluate threats under existing penal code provisions.

Why is this important

Criminal threat laws directly affect free speech boundaries and public safety enforcement. Changes to threat definitions influence how law enforcement investigates cases, how prosecutors decide charges, and what communications can result in criminal liability. This affects both vulnerable populations seeking protection from harassment and individuals concerned about speech restrictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition precision: Ambiguity about what constitutes a "criminal threat" versus protected speech; changes may either expand prosecutorial power or create loopholes depending on specific language
  • False accusation concerns: Modifications could make it easier or harder to prosecute threats, affecting both victim protection and due process for the accused
  • Enforcement disparities: How law enforcement applies threat statutes varies by jurisdiction; changes may not address underlying inconsistencies in implementation across California counties

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

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