2017 House Bill 5017 / 2018 Public Act 457

Create adult “cyberbullying” crime

Introduced in the House

Sept. 27, 2017

Introduced by Rep. Pete Lucido (R-36)

To create a crime of “cyberbullying” another person, subject to a year jail and a $1,000 fine, and 20 years if the action causes an individual’s death. The bill defines “cyberbully" as using a computer network, or a telecommunications system with the intention to intimidate, frighten, harass or cause emotional distress to another person.

Referred to the Committee on Law and Justice

Feb. 27, 2018

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

March 22, 2018

Passed in the House 91 to 17 (details)

To create a crime of “cyberbullying” another person, with sanctions ranging from 93 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense to 10 years if the action causes an individual’s death. The bill defines “cyberbully" as using a computer network, or a telecommunications system with the intention to intimidate, frighten, harass or cause emotional distress to another person. Similar bills and laws apply to minors and students but this one applies to everyone.

Received in the Senate

April 10, 2018

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

May 30, 2018

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Dec. 13, 2018

Passed in the Senate 35 to 2 (details)

To create a crime of “cyberbullying” another person, with sanctions ranging from 93 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense to 10 years if the action causes an individual’s death. The bill defines “cyberbully" as using a computer network, or a telecommunications system with the intention to intimidate, frighten, harass or cause emotional distress to another person. Similar bills and laws apply to minors and students but this one applies to everyone.

Signed by Gov. Rick Snyder

Dec. 24, 2018