Bill > SB470

This bill, known as the "Emergency & Public Safety Signal Protection Act," makes it illegal in Georgia to possess, use, operate, manufacture, sell, offer for sale, distribute, or import "signal jammers," which are devices that can disrupt or block communication signals like those used by cell phones, GPS, or radar. The bill defines various terms, including "communication signal," "critical infrastructure" (essential public services like energy, water, and communications), "public safety agency" (like police or fire departments), and "public safety answering point" (like a 9-1-1 center). Violating these prohibitions is a felony, with penalties ranging from one to seven years in prison and fines up to $10,000, and harsher penalties of one to ten years and fines up to $25,000 if the jammer interferes with public safety or critical infrastructure. Importantly, these penalties cannot be suspended or withheld by a judge. The bill also allows for the forfeiture of any property used to facilitate these violations, with the Attorney General authorized to initiate such proceedings. Exemptions are provided for devices authorized by federal law or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and for possession and use by authorized public safety and law enforcement agencies. The Act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72945