California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB325

Introduced
2/19/25  
Introduced
2/11/25  
Refer
2/19/25  

Caption

An act to amend Section 635 of the Penal Code, relating to cellular telephones.

Impact

The amendments proposed through SB 325 are primarily technical in nature, aimed at clarifying and refining the existing language concerning the penalties associated with the unlawful interception of communications. Under the current legal framework, individuals caught utilizing devices for eavesdropping may face fines up to $2,500 and imprisonment for a duration not exceeding one year. However, if someone has previously been convicted under this section, the penalties can escalate significantly, with fines reaching up to $10,000.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 325, introduced by Senator Niello, amends Section 635 of the Penal Code to modify existing provisions regarding the interception of communications transmitted via cellular devices and landline telephones. The bill addresses the criminal implications for individuals involved in the manufacturing, selling, or distribution of devices intended for eavesdropping or unauthorized interception of these communications. It emphasizes the need for consent from all parties involved in the communication to avoid the criminal liability established under current law.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the enforcement of these regulations, particularly as they pertain to law enforcement actions and the permissible use of interception devices. The bill outlines exceptions for law enforcement agencies and communication utilities, permitting certain practices that would otherwise be deemed illegal under this statute. This creates a potential debate on the balance between public safety measures and the protection of individual privacy rights within the communications landscape.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB690

An act to amend Sections 631, 632, 632.7, 637.2, and 638.50 Section 637.2 of the Penal Code, relating to crimes.

CA LD1234

An Act Regarding Cellular Telephones in Public Schools

CA SB61

Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance - Authorized Interception of Oral Communications - Cellular Telephones and Security Cameras

CA HB1034

Student cellular telephone use.

CA HB2263

Motor vehicles; making certain use of cellular telephones and electronic devices unlawful on certain stretches of road; penalty; municipal ordinances; effective date.

CA HB2263

Motor vehicles; making certain use of cellular telephones and electronic devices unlawful on certain stretches of road; penalty; municipal ordinances; effective date.

CA SB23

Revises provisions related to the use of cellular telephones and other handheld wireless communications devices by minors while operating a motor vehicle. (BDR 43-251)

CA SB1130

An act to add Chapter 40 (commencing with Section 22949.85) to Division 8 of the Business and Professions Code, and to amend Sections 633, 633.1, and 633.5 of, and to add Section 632.8 to, the Penal Code, relating to privacy.

CA SB158

Prohibit student cellular telephone use in public schools

CA H3227

Relative to bundled cellular telephone transactions

Similar Bills

NJ S2212

Requires disclosure of cellular telephone transmitters upon sale or lease of certain residential property.

ND HB1160

AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 15.1-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the use of personal electronic devices during instructional time.

ND HB1160

AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 15.1-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the use of personal electronic devices during instructional time.

MI HB5912

Criminal procedure: sentencing; mandatory sentencing for certain crimes regarding contraband in jails; require. Amends secs. 2, 2a, 3 & 5 of 1981 PA 7 (MCL 801.262 et seq.).

AZ HB2929

Missing children; cellular; location disclosure

ME LD1234

An Act Regarding Cellular Telephones in Public Schools

IL HB2975

SCH CD-NO CELL PHONE IN SCHOOL

OK HB2263

Motor vehicles; making certain use of cellular telephones and electronic devices unlawful on certain stretches of road; penalty; municipal ordinances; effective date.