Bill > HB5575

This bill amends the Michigan Penal Code to define specific terms related to the crime of intimidating or harassing an individual based on their actual or perceived employment as a first responder. It clarifies that "corrections officer" includes prison or jail guards, personnel at minimum security facilities, and parole or probation officers; "firefighter" is defined by existing fire prevention code; "first responder" encompasses law enforcement officers, corrections officers, firefighters, and emergency medical service personnel; "harass" means intentionally causing substantial emotional distress through a course of conduct that serves no legitimate purpose; and "law enforcement officer" is defined by the Michigan commission on law enforcement standards act. This legislation is tied to another bill, HB 5574, and will take effect 90 days after enactment if both bills become law.