SF703 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Crime of unauthorized computer access expansion to include accessing a computer without penetrating a security system

Related bill: HF2630

AI Generated Summary

The bill presented, SF No 703, aims to expand the definition of unauthorized computer access in Minnesota law. Currently, accessing a computer without authorization usually involves bypassing a security system. This bill proposes to also include accessing computers that are unprotected or lack security measures but contain personal data.

Specifically, the bill makes it a crime to intentionally access without permission: 1. Computers secured by safety systems. 2. Electronic terminals. 3. Unprotected devices holding personal data.

Furthermore, the bill outlines various penalties based on the severity of the unauthorized access: - Access that risks someone's life, or repeated gross misdemeanor offenses, can be charged as a felony, potentially leading to a ten-year prison term or a fine up to $20,000. - Lesser violations, including those that risk public health or compromise data security, are treated as gross misdemeanors, possibly resulting in up to 364 days in jail or a $3,000 fine. - The least severe offenses are classified as misdemeanors, with penalties up to 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.

In essence, the bill strengthens the laws against improper access of computers and electronic devices, enhancing penalties for repeated or dangerous offenses while addressing lesser breaches distinctly.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
January 26, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
January 26, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
January 26, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toJudiciary and Public Safety
January 26, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toJudiciary and Public Safety

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill references section 609.52 subdivision 2 regarding data protection in relation to unauthorized computer access penalties.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "609.52",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill concerns nonpublic data definition under section 13.02 subdivision 8a.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "13.02",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 8a"
  }
]