Bill > HB5574

This bill, amending Michigan's penal code, creates a new section that prohibits individuals from intimidating or harassing first responders, which includes police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel, while they are performing their duties. Specifically, if a first responder verbally warns someone to stay back, and that person knowingly ignores the warning and comes within 25 feet with the intent to impede the first responder's work, threaten them with physical harm, or harass them, they can be charged with a misdemeanor, facing up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. If this violation results in an injury to the first responder, the offense escalates to a felony with a potential of two years in prison and a $1,000 fine. Should the violation lead to the death of the first responder, the penalty becomes a more serious felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $7,500 fine. This legislation is tied to another bill, House Bill 5575, meaning it will only become law if that bill is also enacted.