HB 56
An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in assault, further providing for the offense of terroristic threats.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends Pennsylvania’s criminal code to clarify and expand the definition of terroristic threats. Specifically, it changes the penalties for making terroristic threats, making them a felony in certain circumstances, such as when the threat causes disruption to public operations or involves places like churches, schools, or government buildings. The bill also establishes a timeframe for the changes to take effect.
Key provisions
- Defines terroristic threats under Title 18.
- Classifies certain terroristic threats as felonies.
- Increases the penalty for terroristic threats that disrupt public operations.
- Specifies that threats targeting religious facilities, schools, and government buildings are considered felonies.
- Establishes a 60-day period for the law to take effect.
Who is affected
- Individuals making terroristic threats
- Schools and educational facilities
- Religious institutions
- Government buildings and facilities
- Occupants of buildings and transportation systems
Notable changes
- Increases the potential penalty for terroristic threats from a misdemeanor to a felony in specific situations.
- Expands the list of locations considered when determining the severity of a terroristic threat.
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