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Bill

SB 701

Signal jammers.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roger Niello and 1 co-sponsor

SB 701 bans unauthorized signal jammers in California, imposing fines and jail time for violations to protect emergency communications and public safety.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 458, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 701

Summary of SB 701 - Signal Jammers

Bill Number: SB 701
Introduced: February 21, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 458, Statutes of 2025.
Author: Wahab
Vote Requirement: Majority
Fiscal Committee: Yes
Local Program: Yes

Purpose and Intent

SB 701 aims to regulate the use of signal jammers in California. The bill establishes legal penalties for the manufacture, sale, and operation of signal jammers, which are devices that intentionally block or interfere with authorized radio or wireless communications. The intent is to protect public safety communications, particularly those used by emergency response agencies, from malicious interference.

Key Provisions

  1. Prohibition on Signal Jammers:

    • It is illegal to manufacture, import, market, purchase, sell, or operate a signal jammer without authorization from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
    • Violations are classified as:
      • Infraction for a first offense, with a fine up to $500.
      • Misdemeanor for subsequent offenses, punishable by up to one year in county jail, a fine up to $1,000, or both.

  2. Enhanced Penalties for Malicious Use:

    • Operating a signal jammer in conjunction with the commission of a misdemeanor or felony is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail or a fine up to $1,000.
    • Willfully or maliciously using a signal jammer to block public safety communications, knowing it could result in death or great bodily injury, is punishable as either a misdemeanor or felony.

  3. Forfeiture of Devices:

    • Convictions under this bill will require the forfeiture of the signal jamming device.

  4. Exemptions:

    • The law does not apply to authorized and lawful use of signal jammers by local or state law enforcement agencies.

  5. No Reimbursement Requirement:

    • The bill specifies that no reimbursement is required for local agencies or school districts for costs incurred due to the creation of new crimes or changes in penalties.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Individuals and businesses involved in the manufacture, sale, or use of signal jammers.
    • Emergency response agencies that rely on uninterrupted communication for public safety.

  • Legal Framework:

    • This bill creates new legal standards and penalties, contributing to a state-mandated local program aimed at enhancing public safety.

Procedural Timeline

  • 2025-10-07: Approved by the Governor and chaptered.
  • 2025-09-17: Enrolled and presented to the Governor.
  • 2025-09-08: Passed in the Assembly and returned to the Senate for concurrence.
  • 2025-07-16: Set for first hearing in Assembly Public Safety Committee.
  • 2025-06-04: Passed in the Senate and sent to the Assembly.

This summary provides an overview of SB 701, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on public safety and legal standards in California.

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

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