Honorable James White, Chair, House Committee on Homeland Security & Public Safety
FROM:
Jerry McGinty, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB3017 by Wu (Relating to criminal liability for reporting false information to draw an emergency response; creating an offense.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the penal code to create the criminal offense of swatting. Under the provisions of the bill, the offense of reporting false information to draw an emergency response, defined as swatting, would be created.
The Office of Court Administration and the Department of Public Safety indicate implementing the modifications outlined in the bill's provisions would not result in a significant fiscal impact. This analysis assumes implementing the provisions of the bill addressing felony sanctions would not result in a significant impact on the demand for state correctional resources.
Local Government Impact
The Texas Association of Counties anticipates a positive fiscal impact on counties from future restitution from individuals who make false reports. However it is not possible to determine the extent of that impact.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Admin, 405 Department of Public Safety