Bill > H1377

This bill establishes penalties for individuals found guilty of placing graffiti on property, defining "graffiti implement" broadly to include markers, aerosol paint containers, and adhesive coverings, and specifying "broad-tipped indelible marker" as a marker with a fluid not soluble in water and a writing surface of at least one-half inch wide. It outlines that possessing such implements with the intent to vandalize or deface property in specific public areas, like overpasses or transportation facilities, without authorization is a violation. The bill categorizes penalties based on the value of the damage and the number of offenses, ranging from gross misdemeanors to felonies, with escalating fines, community service requirements (which can be graffiti abatement related), and potential jail time for repeat offenders or felony convictions. Notably, it mandates driver's license suspension for individuals 18 and older convicted of these offenses, and for minors, it allows for prohibiting them from obtaining a driver's license. The bill also creates a Graffiti Reward Fund, funded by administrative assessments on convictions, to pay for information leading to the identification, apprehension, and conviction of graffiti offenders.