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HB 345

CRIMINAL LAW-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

Illinois HB 345 addresses criminal law technology issues; passed committee but faces extended timeline and procedural holds.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 345

Legislative bill overview

HB 345 is a criminal law bill related to technology that was introduced in the Illinois House by Representative Chris Welch. The bill passed the Executive Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation in March 2025 but has since been held in committees, with its deadline extended to May 31, 2025, and most recently re-referred to the Rules Committee.

Why is this important

Criminal law-technology bills typically address emerging challenges at the intersection of crime and digital systems—such as cybercrime, digital evidence handling, surveillance technology, data privacy in criminal proceedings, or technology-assisted offenses. The specific impact depends on HB 345's actual provisions, which would affect law enforcement practices, defendants' rights, or public safety protocols in Illinois.

Potential points of contention

  • Technology oversight and civil liberties: Depending on provisions, the bill may raise concerns about surveillance capabilities, data collection by law enforcement, or defendants' access to digital evidence
  • Implementation and resources: New technology-related criminal law requirements often demand training, equipment, and funding that law enforcement agencies may lack
  • Definitional clarity: Tech-focused criminal statutes require precise language to avoid unintended consequences or selective enforcement across jurisdictions

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

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