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Senate approves misdemeanor offense for intimidating minors into gangs; SB65 moves to House
Summary
Senate uncircled and passed Senate Bill 65, which defines criminal street gang and establishes a misdemeanor offense for intimidating a minor to join or leave a criminal street gang; recorded vote was 21–6 with 2 absences.
Senator Griner uncircled Senate Bill 65 from the third-reading column and told the Senate the bill now has a fiscal note showing no fiscal impact. The measure defines a criminal street gang and creates a misdemeanor offense for intimidating a minor to join or leave a criminal street gang, using misdemeanor penalties to avoid elevating related charges.
“Again, to the bill, this bill basically defines a criminal street gang and creates a new criminal offense for intimidating a minor to join a criminal street gang or leave a criminal street gang,” Senator Griner said on the floor as she explained the purpose and scope of the measure.
The Senate called the roll on final passage. The clerk recorded 21 yes votes, 6 nay votes and 2 absences; the president announced the bill passed and will be referred to the House for further action.
Senator Griner told colleagues the misdemeanor framework is intended so the state would not conflate this offense with other, more serious gang-related crimes. No floor amendments were offered during the recorded passage.
The Senate proceeded to other business after noting the passage and referral.
