Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB227

Introduced
2/2/23  
Report Pass
2/28/23  
Introduced
2/2/23  
Engrossed
3/2/23  
Report Pass
2/28/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Engrossed
3/2/23  
Report Pass
3/20/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Report Pass
3/20/23  
Chaptered
4/26/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
4/26/23  

Caption

Crimes and offenses; offense of criminal interference with critical infrastructure; provide

Impact

The implications of HB227 on state laws are significant, as it creates a more stringent legal backdrop for offenses related to critical infrastructure. This includes facilities vital for public safety and utility services, such as power plants, water treatment facilities, and communication networks. The bill proposes to categorize specific disruptive actions as criminal offenses, thereby affecting the prosecution and legal penalties imposed on offenders within the state. This change aims to bolster the defenses of these critical assets against sabotage or vandalism.

Summary

House Bill 227 addresses the offense of criminal interference with critical infrastructure, aiming to enhance the legal framework surrounding the protection of vital facilities and services. This legislation is designed to establish clear definitions and consequences for actions that disrupt critical infrastructure, ensuring that individuals responsible for such interference can be held accountable. By clarifying these legal stipulations, HB227 seeks to deter potential threats against essential public services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB227 appears to be largely positive among lawmakers and stakeholders who prioritize infrastructure security. Supporters emphasize the importance of protecting critical services against potential threats, viewing the bill as a necessary measure to enhance public safety. However, there are concerns among some advocacy groups regarding the potential overreach of such laws and the impact they might have on civil liberties and community actions, suggesting that a thorough discussion of its implications is warranted.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise regarding the scope of what constitutes 'criminal interference' and the potential for overly broad applications of the law. Critics express worries that the bill could inadvertently criminalize legitimate protests or community actions aimed at advocating for improved infrastructure services. The balance between protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring the rights of individuals to express their dissent is a critical aspect of the ongoing discussions around HB227.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB290

Crimes and offenses; critical infrastructure facilities, further provided; crimes of unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure facility and criminal tampering, further provided

GA SB54

Crimes and offenses; critical infrastructure facilities, further provided; crimes of unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure facility and criminal tampering, further provided

GA HB1101

Criminal Offenses Related to Critical Infrastructure Metals

GA HB675

Crimes and offenses; criminal offenses related to material support of terrorism; provide

GA HB261101

Concerning adding criminal offenses related to critical infrastructure components to criminal offenses involving commodity metals.

GA SB268

Offenses Against Public Order; crime of interference with a first responder; provide

GA HB412

Crimes and offenses, unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure facility and criminal tampering in the first degree further provided for

GA SB604

Crimes and Offenses; the Attorney General concurrent jurisdiction with district attorneys to conduct criminal prosecutions of violent crimes, illegal immigration offenses, and fentanyl offenses; provide

GA HB464

Crimes and offenses; immunity for a prospective offender while seeking assistance from law enforcement as a victim of certain offenses; provide

GA SB482

Criminal Law - Interference With Critical Infrastructure or a Public Safety Answering Point

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.