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Bill

HB 336

CRIMINAL LAW-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

HB 336 establishes new criminal law provisions addressing technology-related offenses in Illinois, advancing through committee with passage recommendation but facing procedural delays.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 336

Legislative bill overview

HB 336 addresses the intersection of criminal law and technology in Illinois, though specific provisions are not detailed in the action history provided. Based on the bill's title and committee routing, it likely establishes new criminal offenses, penalties, or procedural requirements related to technology-facilitated crimes or digital evidence handling. The bill has progressed through executive committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation but remains in procedural stages.

Why is this important

Technology-related crime legislation directly affects public safety, law enforcement capabilities, and individual privacy rights. As digital crimes evolve—including cyberstalking, deepfakes, identity theft, and data breaches—legislative frameworks determine how effectively Illinois can prosecute offenders and protect victims, while also establishing guardrails for investigative practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of criminal conduct: Defining what constitutes technology-facilitated crime is challenging; overly broad language could criminalize minor digital behavior while narrow language may leave victims unprotected
  • Privacy vs. enforcement: New investigative powers or digital surveillance tools may conflict with Fourth Amendment protections and individual privacy expectations
  • Technical feasibility: Criminal statutes must be clear enough for law enforcement and prosecutors to apply consistently; poorly drafted tech provisions create uncertainty and unequal enforcement

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

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