CA AB2791

Expands false emergency reporting crimes to require intent or reckless disregard regarding bodily harm, substantial emotional distress, property damage, or misuse of public resources; second or subsequent violations punishable by up to one year jail or $5,000 fine; pattern of two or more violations punishable as misdemeanor or felony with up to $10,000 fine.

Allows victims of false reports to bring civil actions against violators and anyone knowingly benefiting from such violations, recovering damages and reasonable attorney's fees.

Rewrites stalking statute to criminalize intentional or knowing course of conduct directed at another person without legitimate purpose that would cause reasonable person to fear death, bodily injury, or substantial emotional distress to victim or their close relation; first violation punishable as misdemeanor or felony, second or subsequent violations as felony only.

Increases penalties for doxing/distributing personal identifying information via electronic communication device; second or subsequent violations punishable by up to one year jail or $5,000 fine; pattern violations punishable as felony with 16 months to 3 years jail or up to $10,000 fine.

Allows victims of stalking or doxing to sue violators and beneficiaries for damages and attorney's fees; makes perpetrators liable to public agencies for security costs when victim is public employee.