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HB 351

CRIMINAL LAW-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

Illinois HB 351 updates criminal law to address technology-related offenses; currently in rules committee after executive committee approval.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 351

Legislative bill overview

HB 351 addresses criminal law issues related to technology in Illinois. The bill has passed executive committee with a "do pass" recommendation and is currently in the rules committee after having its third reading deadline extended. While the specific provisions are not detailed in the action history provided, the title suggests it targets technology-related criminal conduct or updates existing criminal statutes to address digital/technological contexts.

Why is this important

Technology-related criminal law is increasingly significant as digital crimes—including cyberstalking, deepfakes, unauthorized access, and AI-generated exploitation materials—evolve faster than existing statutes. Updating Illinois criminal code to address these emerging threats can help law enforcement prosecute modern crimes while protecting citizens. Clear statutory language also prevents inconsistent application and protects defendants' due process rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Technology law is rapidly evolving; overly broad language could criminalize legitimate activities, while narrow definitions may miss harmful conduct
  • First Amendment tensions: Provisions addressing deepfakes, synthetic media, or online speech must balance criminal liability against free expression protections
  • Enforcement and privacy concerns: New criminal provisions may require law enforcement surveillance capabilities that raise privacy and civil liberties questions about data collection and monitoring

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

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