Bills/H.R. 286

Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act of 2025

Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act of 2025

In CommitteeJudiciaryHouseHouse Bill · 119th Congress
Bill Progress · House
Introduced
Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Passed Both
Signed

Plain Language Summary

# Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would make "swatting" a federal crime. Swatting occurs when someone deliberately makes a false report to emergency services (like calling 911) claiming there's a crime, threat, or emergency at someone's location, knowing the information is fake. The false report causes police or emergency responders to rush to the address. The bill would criminalize intentionally providing such false or misleading information when it's reasonably expected to trigger an emergency response. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily targets individuals who engage in swatting.

It indirectly affects emergency services and the general public by potentially reducing frivolous emergency calls that waste resources. First responders and their safety are also a consideration, since swatting situations can be dangerous. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Representative David Kustoff (R-TN) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. No action has been taken beyond the initial introduction.

CRS Official Summary

Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act of 2025This bill makes it a crime to intentionally convey false or misleading information in circumstances where the information may reasonably be expected to cause an emergency response and the information indicates the occurrence of criminal conduct or a threat to health or safety (commonly referred to as swatting).

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Latest Action

January 9, 2025

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Subjects

Civil actions and liabilityCriminal procedure and sentencingEmergency communications systemsFirst responders and emergency personnelFraud offenses and financial crimesPostal service

Sponsor

28 cosponsors

Key Dates

Introduced
January 9, 2025
Last Updated
January 9, 2025
Read Full Text on Congress.gov →
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