Arizona passes outrageous electronic anti-bullying law

[Ned]

Arizona is at it again. They have passed a new anti-bullying bill meant to protect people from being bullied via electronic means; computer, cell phone, etc. The only problem is the bill is so broad, to my mind it's clearly unconstitutional, but that hasn't stopped Arizona before.

The intent of the bill is wonderful, but its wording is horrible and puts everyone in Arizona at risk when the participate in forums like this one, send a text message, and email, Skype, or talk on a phone, etc.

The Arizona government would be the language and intent arbiter according to the bill.

Here's the problem text so you can see for yourself just how bad it is.

It is unlawful for any person, with intent to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, annoy or offend, to use any electronic or digital device and use any obscene, lewd or profane language or suggest any lewd or lascivious act, or threaten to inflict physical harm to the person or property of any person. It is also unlawful to otherwise disturb by repeated anonymous electronic or digital communications the peace, quiet or right of privacy of any person at the place where the telephone call or calls communications were received.

The penalty for breaking this law which would be a Class 1 misdemeanor, would be a $2,500 fine and up to six months in jail.

It's read for the governor to sign now, and will likely be signed.

[tdew]

I guess we'd better stop calling our members who live in Arizona names.