PC §414 - MISUSE OF A GOVERNMENT HOTLINE

CLASS D MISDEMEANOR

Section 1: Definitions

1. Government Hotline: A telephone or electronic communication service provided by a government agency or authority for the purpose of reporting concerns, obtaining information, or seeking assistance on matters of public interest.

2. Misuse of a Government Hotline: The act of using a government hotline for purposes other than those intended, including but not limited to making false reports, fraudulent claims, abusive or harassing communications, or other actions that obstruct or impair the effective operation of the hotline.

3. False Report: Any communication made to a government hotline that is knowingly untrue or misleading, and is intended to deceive, mislead, or cause unnecessary disruption or investigation.

4. Abusive Communication: Any communication made to a government hotline that is threatening, harassing, or otherwise intended to cause distress or harm to hotline personnel or other individuals.

Section 2: Offenses

1. False Reporting:

   • It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly make a false report to a government hotline with the intent to deceive, mislead, or cause unnecessary investigation or disruption.

2. Fraudulent Claims:

   • It shall be unlawful for any person to use a government hotline to make fraudulent claims, including but not limited to false requests for assistance or benefits, with the intent to obtain unlawful gain or benefits.

3. Abusive or Harassing Communications:

   • It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in abusive or harassing communications with government hotline personnel, including threats, insults, or any form of communication intended to cause distress or harm.

4. Obstruction of Hotline Operations:

   • It shall be unlawful for any person to take actions that obstruct or impair the effective operation of a government hotline, including but not limited to repeatedly making frivolous or malicious calls, or using the hotline to disrupt its normal functioning.

Section 3: Exceptions

1. Lawful Use:

   • This code shall not apply to individuals using the government hotline for its intended purpose, including making legitimate inquiries or reporting genuine concerns or emergencies.

2. First Amendment Protections:

   • This code shall not apply to communications protected by the First Amendment, provided that the communications do not involve false reports, harassment, or obstruction of hotline operations.

3. Emergency Situations:

   • This code shall not apply to actions taken in good faith during emergency situations where the hotline is used to report or seek assistance for immediate and serious concerns.

JAIL TIME

40

BOND SET

$4,000.00