Bill > H1621

This bill amends Section 99 of Chapter 272 by expanding definitions related to law enforcement investigations of serious crimes. The bill broadens the definition of "transmitted communication" to include a wide range of technological communication methods, such as cellular phones, smartphones, and other digital devices that transfer signs, signals, writing, images, photographs, videos, texts, sounds, or data. Specifically, the definition now encompasses communications transmitted through wire, cable, wireless, electronic, digital, radio, electromagnetic, satellite, cellular, optical, or similar technological means. The bill also excludes certain types of communications from this definition, such as tone-only paging devices, tracking device communications, and electronic funds transfer information. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "designated offense" to include a comprehensive list of serious crimes, such as homicide, crimes involving force, controlled substance violations, firearms-related offenses, human trafficking, and related accessories, conspiracies, attempts, and solicitations. These changes are designed to provide law enforcement with more comprehensive tools and legal clarity when investigating serious criminal activities.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1621