HB 2341 Summary

• Makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly provide false written, audio, or video statements to law enforcement with intent to prevent, hinder, or delay a criminal investigation when the statement is material to the investigation.

• Establishes misdemeanor penalties for false statements related to misdemeanor investigations: up to one year in county jail, fine up to $500, or both.

• Establishes felony penalties for false statements related to felony investigations: up to two years imprisonment, fine up to $1,000, or both; or up to ten years imprisonment and fine up to $5,000 for false statements related to crimes enumerated in Section 13.1 of Title 21.

• Defines key terms including "statement" (oral or written assertions to law enforcement), "false" (untrue, incomplete, or misleading information), "material" (could affect investigation outcome), and "official proceeding."

• Becomes effective November 1, 2014.