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HB 401

CRIMINAL LAW-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

Illinois HB 401 updates criminal law statutes addressing technology-related offenses to modernize prosecution of digital crimes and cyber-enabled misconduct.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 401

Legislative bill overview

HB 401 is an Illinois criminal law bill focused on technology-related offenses, introduced by Representative Chris Welch. The bill has advanced through committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation but remains in the rules committee stage as of May 2025. The specific provisions are not detailed in the available legislative history provided.

Why this is important

Technology-related criminal law is increasingly relevant as cybercrime, digital fraud, and unauthorized access to systems grow more prevalent. Clarifying or updating Illinois' criminal statutes related to technology can affect how law enforcement prosecutes digital crimes and how individuals and businesses navigate cybersecurity concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition specificity: Technology crimes require precise statutory language; overly broad definitions could criminalize legitimate activity, while narrow ones might create enforcement gaps
  • Balancing innovation and safety: Criminal penalties for tech-related conduct must distinguish between malicious actors and security researchers or privacy advocates
  • Enforcement capability: Law enforcement may lack sufficient resources or expertise to investigate and prosecute technology crimes effectively

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

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