IL HB0257

Amends the Harassing and Obscene Communications Act to add a new Class 4 felony circumstance when an inmate of a penal institution commits harassment against a known employee of that institution.

Defines "employee" and "penal institution" according to Section 31A-1.2 of the Criminal Code of 1961.

Maintains existing penalties: Class B misdemeanor for first violations, Class A misdemeanor for second or subsequent violations with minimum 14 days jail or 240 hours community service.

Applies existing Class 4 felony provisions for seven other circumstances including prior violations, violations against protected persons, threats to kill, and offenses against minors.