Georgia lawmakers have stepped in to stop leftists in their tracks as they continue their campaign of terror against conservatives, banning doxxing across the state. The new law, however, has not proven popular with everybody.
At a glance:
- Georgia’s Senate Bill 27 aims to criminalize “doxxing,” making it a misdemeanor for first offenses and a felony for subsequent violations
- Republican Senator John Albers sponsored the bill after he and other GOP lawmakers were victims of dangerous “swatting” incidents
- The bill defines doxxing as maliciously publishing private information online that causes fear or significant life disruptions
- Critics argue the bill’s broad language could potentially criminalize everyday criticism and violate First Amendment protections
- The legislation passed with a near-unanimous 52-1 vote in the Georgia Senate and is now being considered by the Judiciary Committee
Republicans Lead Push for Online Protection After Lawmakers Targeted
Georgia Republican legislators are taking a stand against online harassment with a new bill that would make “doxxing” a crime punishable by jail time. Senate Bill 27, sponsored by Republican Senator John Albers, passed the state Senate with an overwhelming 52-1 vote, signaling strong bipartisan support for protecting citizens from having their personal information weaponized.
The legislation comes after several Republican lawmakers, including Albers himself, were victims of dangerous “swatting” attacks in December 2023. The incidents involved false emergency reports designed to provoke armed police responses to their homes, putting these public servants and their families in potential danger.
Bill Creates Tough Penalties for Online Harassment
Under the proposed legislation, publishing someone’s personal information online “with malicious intent” that leads to “substantial life disruption” would initially be classified as a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. The bill specifically targets those who share identifying information on social media or electronic platforms with the intent to cause harm.
The penalties get significantly harsher for repeat offenders or in cases where doxxing results in physical injury. In these situations, perpetrators would face felony charges and potential prison sentences of 1-10 years, sending a clear message that online harassment has real-world consequences.
Senator John Albers emphasized the need for this legislation, stating, “As you look at technology, it keeps evolving. And as people have more access to information, unfortunately, they have more access to how to get to people.”
Republican Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, who was also targeted by swatting, expressed strong support for the measure. “We’re living in a dangerous world, and I think this bill would help with that,” Kirkpatrick said.
Critics Raise First Amendment Concerns
While the bill has strong support, there are also many detractors.
Some legal experts, for example, have raised concerns about the bill’s potential impact on free speech. Greg Gonzalez, legislative counsel at the Foundation For Individual Rights and Expression, argued the bill could have a chilling effect on legitimate speech.
“The idea that you could post something online and then someone else might act on that kind of just information, including someone’s name, and you can be blamed for it criminally is certainly unconstitutional and would certainly chill speech,” Gonzalez said. These concerns echo a broader debate about balancing online safety with constitutional protections.
The bill includes provisions meant to ensure it does not infringe on freedom of speech or expression, except in cases of true threats or incitement of illegal actions. However, skeptics question whether these guardrails are sufficient to protect legitimate criticism and reporting.
Victims of doxxing would have legal recourse under the bill, including the ability to petition for protective orders and sue for damages in superior court if they suffer monetary loss, physical harm, or other serious consequences. This victim-centered approach reflects the real-world impact that online harassment can have on individuals and families.
It might not be perfect, but at least left-wing extremists can’t keep ruining lives…in this one state!
