SB 865 Summary

• Permits individuals to possess and use portable electronic devices in courthouses, subject to court authority to limit activities that disrupt operations or compromise security.

• Prohibits photographing, recording, broadcasting, or live streaming of jurors or jury candidates; allows such activities in courtrooms only with judge permission and in other courthouse areas with express prior consent.

• Requires jurors to turn off devices in courtrooms and may require surrender of devices during deliberations if court provides emergency contact number; witnesses must silence devices and may only use them while testifying with judge permission.

• Prohibits any use of portable electronic devices to communicate with courtroom participants (parties, witnesses, jurors) during proceedings; allows attorneys, parties, and public to use devices silently for note-taking, internet access, and text messaging in courtrooms.

• Establishes enforcement mechanisms including contempt of court sanctions, device confiscation for remainder of court day, and orders to turn off or secure devices; effective 90 days after enactment.