HB0178

Official summary

Bill No.: <billno> Drafter: <drafterinit> Bill No.: HB0178 Drafter: DKG LSO No.: 14LSO-0417 Effective Date: 7/1/2014 Enrolled Act No.: HEA0048 Chapter No.: CH0073 Prime Sponsor: Representative Nicholas, B. Catch Title: Computer trespass. Subject: Creates the criminal and civil offenses of computer trespass. Summary/Major Elements: This act creates the criminal offense of computer trespass and provides for a civil action for computer trespass. A person commits the criminal offense of computer trespass if he, knowingly, without authorization and with intent to damage or cause damage, transfers, sends electronically or causes to send into a computer, computer system or network any data, program or other information which damages or causes damage to that computer, computer system or network. The criminal offense is a misdemeanor if the resulting damages are less than $10,000, punishable by up to 6 months in prison, a fine of not more than $750, or both. If the resulting damages are more than $10,000, the criminal offense is a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000, or both. A person that commits civil trespass may be liable for all damages incurred and the cost of litigation, including the cost of identifying the trespasser and obtaining appropriate service. This act provides an exception for common carriers, internet service providers or other persons supplying the internet services when the trespass is the result of another.