HI HB618

Creates new offense of "harassment by online impersonation" as a misdemeanor, prohibiting use of another person's name or persona to create web pages or post messages on commercial social networking sites without consent and with intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten.

Establishes "aggravated harassment by online impersonation" as a class C felony for repeat offenders convicted of harassment by online impersonation within five years of the instant offense.

Amends existing harassment by impersonation statute to make the offense a class C felony if committed with intent to solicit a response by emergency services personnel.

Provides defense to prosecution for employees of commercial social networking sites, internet service providers, telecommunications providers, cable operators, and interactive computer services.

Effective January 7, 2059.