HB 1557 Summary

• Creates the "Geolocation Information Protection Act" making it unlawful to intentionally intercept, disclose, or use geolocation information pertaining to another person without authorization, with criminal penalties of at least 1 year imprisonment and minimum $1,000 fine for violations.

• Establishes exceptions allowing interception of geolocation information with prior consent, by parents/guardians of minors under 18, through publicly accessible systems, for law enforcement emergency response, and by device owners investigating theft.

• Prohibits acceptance of geolocation information as evidence in any court or legal proceeding if the disclosure would violate the act, with limited exceptions for information obtained pursuant to a warrant.

• Authorizes specially designated law enforcement officers to intercept geolocation information in emergency situations involving immediate danger of death, national security threats, or organized crime, requiring court approval within 48 hours or the information becomes inadmissible.

• Allows civil actions by persons whose geolocation information is unlawfully intercepted, with remedies including injunctive relief, damages, punitive damages, and attorney fees, with a 1-year statute of limitations; effective November 1, 2013.