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Bill

Bill

A 6005

Establishes the crimes of spoofing a police agency telephone number in the first and second degrees as a class E felony and a class A misdemeanor

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Judy Griffin

Bill A 6005 makes spoofing police phone numbers a crime, imposing penalties up to four years in prison, enhancing public safety and protecting citizens from scams.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 6005

Summary of Bill A 6005

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 6005
  • Title: Establishes the crimes of spoofing a police agency telephone number in the first and second degrees as a class E felony and a class A misdemeanor
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced On: February 25, 2025

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 6005 aims to address the growing issue of telephone number spoofing, specifically targeting instances where individuals impersonate police agencies through fraudulent phone calls. The bill seeks to enhance public safety by establishing clear legal consequences for those who engage in this deceptive practice.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces two distinct degrees of the crime of spoofing a police agency telephone number:

  1. First Degree Spoofing (Class E Felony)

    • This classification applies to more severe instances of spoofing that may involve significant harm or intent to deceive for malicious purposes.
    • Penalties for a Class E felony may include imprisonment for up to four years and/or fines as determined by the court.
  2. Second Degree Spoofing (Class A Misdemeanor)

    • This classification covers less severe cases of spoofing that do not meet the criteria for the first degree.
    • Penalties for a Class A misdemeanor may include imprisonment for up to one year and/or fines.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: The bill aims to protect the integrity of police communications and prevent the misuse of their identity.
  • General Public: Citizens may benefit from increased protection against scams and fraudulent activities that could arise from spoofed police calls.
  • Perpetrators of Spoofing: Individuals who engage in spoofing activities would face legal repercussions under this legislation.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 25, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • The legislative process will involve discussions, potential amendments, and votes in both houses before it can be enacted into law.

Related Legislation

  • S 6920 (prior-session)
  • A 4679 (prior-session)
  • A 1342 (prior-session)
  • S 7627 (companion)

These related bills may provide additional context or similar provisions regarding the regulation of telephone spoofing and related crimes.

Conclusion

Bill A 6005 represents a proactive approach to combatting the misuse of technology in impersonating law enforcement agencies. By establishing clear penalties for such actions, the bill aims to deter fraudulent behavior and protect the public from potential harm. As it moves through the legislative process, stakeholders will have opportunities to discuss its implications and effectiveness in enhancing public safety.

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

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