HB 6549 Summary

• Expands the definition of cyberbullying to include posting messages or statements directing a person to kill themselves or attempt suicide, if part of a pattern of harassing or intimidating behavior causing emotional distress.

• Adds a new felony offense for cyberbullying in an attempt to influence a public officer to take, modify, or not take official action, punishable by up to 4 years imprisonment or $5,000 fine.

• Increases penalties for second-time cyberbullying violations from a misdemeanor with up to 93 days imprisonment to up to 1 year imprisonment or $1,000 fine.

• Defines "emotional distress" as significant mental suffering or distress that may require medical or professional treatment, and clarifies that cyberbullying requires either suicidal direction or threatening messages as part of a harassment pattern.

• Takes effect 90 days after enactment into law.