California Assembly Bill AB1472

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Refer: 3/14/19
• Report Pass: 4/4/19
• Refer: 4/9/19
• Engrossed: 4/25/19
• Refer: 4/25/19
• Refer: 5/8/19
• Report Pass: 6/19/19
• Refer: 6/19/19
• Refer: 6/26/19
• Report Pass: 7/2/19
• Refer: 7/2/19
• Report Pass: 7/10/19
• Refer: 7/10/19
• Report Pass: 8/12/19
• Refer: 6/25/20
• Refer: 7/1/20
• Report Pass: 7/14/20
• Refer: 7/14/20

Caption

Personal rights: false reports to law enforcement.

Impact

The enactment of AB 1472 will enhance the existing protections under the Ralph Civil Rights Act of 1976 by clarifying that intimidating conduct through false reporting will be seen as a form of violence or intimidation. This addition is expected to empower individuals who may be targeted by false reports, providing them with avenues for civil recourse. The broader impact also involves reinforcing the integrity of law enforcement processes, ensuring that law enforcement resources are not misused.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1472, introduced by Assembly Member Mark Stone, aims to amend the Civil Code to address the implications of making false reports to law enforcement. The bill proposes that individuals who knowingly or recklessly file false reports alleging unlawful activity or requiring law enforcement intervention are not protected under certain existing privilege provisions. This change is significant as it introduces accountability for individuals who misuse law enforcement resources for malicious purposes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 1472 is largely positive among supporters who view the bill as a necessary measure to protect individuals from fraudulent allegations and to maintain the integrity of law enforcement operations. Advocates argue that by deterring false reporting, the bill will help to prevent unnecessary legal and social consequences for innocent individuals. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for the bill to inadvertently dissuade legitimate calls for law enforcement intervention due to fear of repercussions for false reporting.

Contention

Debate on AB 1472 has highlighted concerns regarding freedom of speech and the potential chilling effect on individuals' willingness to report unlawful activity. Critics may argue that the bill could lead to misuse whereby individuals refrain from reporting criminal activity out of fear that they could be accused of making a false report. Furthermore, careful implementation and clear guidelines will be necessary to differentiate between malicious false reports and honest mistakes, ensuring that protections remain in place for individuals seeking assistance.