Relating to penalties for intimidation and harassment of election officials and election interference; creating criminal offenses.
Impact
Should SB891 be enacted, it would amend the Election Code by adding a new chapter dedicated to these offenses. The penalties stipulated in the bill categorize these offenses as felonies or misdemeanors depending on the severity and intent behind the actions. Specifically, a felony of the third degree is assigned to most offenses listed in the new chapter, with potential upgrades to second-degree felonies for repeat offenders. This is a significant amendment to existing election laws, aiming to foster a safer environment for election officials.
Summary
SB891 introduces new criminal offenses related to the intimidation and harassment of election officials as well as election interference. The bill aims to enhance protections for those involved in the electoral process, targeting actions that disrupt their ability to perform their official duties. By creating specific definitions around intimidation, harassment, and interference, the bill establishes clear penalties for behaviors that could threaten the integrity of elections and the safety of the officials involved.
Contention
The bill may face debate concerning the balance between protecting election officials and ensuring that legitimate political discourse and protests are not stifled. Some advocates may argue that the language could be too broad, possibly infringing on freedoms of speech and assembly. Additionally, there may be discussions on how effectively the bill can be enforced, and whether the penalties are sufficient to deter harassment, considering the political climate surrounding elections.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to the confidentiality of personal information of certain employees and contractors of the Department of Family and Protective Services and of certain elected officials.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for a current or former administrative law judge for the State Office of Administrative Hearings.