Gov. Ducey signs HB 2502, prohibits posting personal info online to harass someone

Meant to prevent Arizonans from "doxing" one another

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Governor Doug Ducey signs HB 2502 into law Thursday, which prohibits posting another person’s personal identifying information online for the purpose of that person being harassed.

State Representative Shawnna Bolick (R-20) is the primary sponsor for this legislation. State Representatives Walter Blackman (R-6) and Jake Hoffman (R-12) showed support by cosponsoring HB 2502.

“After hearing numerous stories of women who were ‘doxed’ by an abusive ex, and living in fear for their safety, I knew that something needed to be done in Arizona to protect the privacy of its citizens,” shares Rep. Bolick. 

It is unlawful for any person, with intent to terrify, intimidate, threaten or harass a specific person or persons, to do any of the following:
1. Direct any obscene, lewd or profane language or suggest any lewd or lascivious act to the person in an electronic communication.
2. Threaten to inflict physical harm to any person or property in any electronic communication.
3. Otherwise disturb by repeated anonymous, unwanted or unsolicited electronic communications the peace, quiet or right of privacy of the person at the place where the communications were received.

Rep. Bolick continues, “HB 2502 is a strong step to ensuring the safety and privacy of all Arizonans and will ensure that private citizens have recourse if their personal information is posted online and they face harassment as a result.”

Passed by the House and Senate with bipartisan support, this new law will help to protect private citizens from having their personal information, such as a phone number or home address, distributed online for the purpose of harassing or injuring that person.