Senate approves measure to criminalize false reports of violence, Senate Bill 1019

The Idaho Senate on Jan. 30 approved Senate Bill 1019, a measure that amends Idaho Code section 18-333 to criminalize false reports of violence or emergencies — commonly known as swatting — by a recorded vote of 34 in favor with one senator absent.

Senator Tanner Nichols, who presented the bill on the floor, said the measure responds to an increase in dangerous false reports that endanger lives and divert emergency resources. "Swatting is not just a prank. It is a criminal act with serious consequences," Nichols said. He told senators that Idaho has recorded more than 21 swatting incidents since 2023 affecting schools, businesses, residences, airports, synagogues, courthouses, the state capitol and hospitals.

Nichols said the bill clarifies definitions, specifies penalties, and corrects statutory language to improve enforcement. He and witnesses who testified in committee described the incidents as costly to taxpayers and a risk to first responders and the public. The sponsor said the bill carries no additional cost to state or local government and argued it could save public resources by deterring malicious false reports.

After the sponsor's remarks, no floor amendments were offered and debate was closed. The Senate secretary polled the membership for a final vote; the clerk announced 34 senators in favor and one absent. The president declared Senate Bill 1019 passed and approved the title for transmittal to the House of Representatives.

The bill specifically amends Idaho Code § 18-333 to add provisions addressing false reports of explosives, violence or other emergencies; the Senate record shows the change aims to provide clearer enforcement tools for law enforcement to address swatting.