Committee approves measure criminalizing threats intended to influence public servants, despite debate over mandatory minimums

The House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee voted 7‑5 to recommend House Bill 14‑23, which expands an improper‑influence statute to cover threatening public servants or their immediate family where the threat is intended to influence official action.

Chair outlined the bill’s purpose and read portions of the mandatory‑minimum language aloud. "This is about influencing a person's actions in their official position," the chair said, explaining the bill applies when threats are intended to alter official behavior. The bill includes a mandatory minimum prison term of not less than one year and mandatory minimum fines for each separately charged victim when the threat is made with the intent to influence.

Representative Scherer said he supported the bill’s principle but could not back a measure that includes mandatory minimum sentences, calling the sentencing provision "difficult" and expressing concern about disproportionate penalties. Representative Murray and other supporters said the change was intended as a deterrent for coordinated threats that seek to influence public officials.

After debate, the committee recorded a 7‑5 recommendation in favor of the bill. Members flagged the sentencing approach as a point for further consideration during floor debate or later amendment.