H.B. 544 Summary

• Prohibits unauthorized projection of images onto buildings, structures, or improvements without owner consent; violations are first-degree misdemeanors, or third-degree felonies if intended to harass or intimidate based on protected characteristics (race, color, religion, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability).

• Expands aggravated trespass to include entering or remaining on critical infrastructure facilities with purpose to destroy or tamper with them, making such violations third-degree felonies.

• Prohibits placing or maintaining unauthorized signs, signals, banners, flags, or structures in the right-of-way of public roads, highways, pedestrian bridges, or highway overpasses.

• Expands ethnic intimidation provisions to include violations of section 2917.12 (disturbing lawful meetings) when penalty is imposed under first-degree misdemeanor provision.

• Increases penalties for organizations directing or compensating individuals to commit certain crimes related to critical infrastructure by imposing fines up to ten times the maximum individual penalties for those offenses.