Bill > HB5830

This bill modifies Michigan's penal code concerning terrorist threats and false reports of terrorism by expanding the conditions under which someone can be found guilty. Previously, a person was guilty if they threatened terrorism and communicated it, or knowingly made a false report of terrorism. This bill adds that a person is also guilty if they threaten to commit an act of terrorism and communicate that threat while knowing it would be viewed as threatening violence, or if they communicate such a threat with "reckless disregard," which means consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the communication would be seen as threatening violence. The penalties for violating this section are also increased, now requiring a minimum of 5 years imprisonment and allowing for a fine of up to $20,000, in addition to the existing maximum of 20 years imprisonment. This change is tied to another bill, HB 5831 of the 103rd Legislature.