Committee backs substitute to allow judicial threat assessments while narrowing internet-removal rules

Senate Bill 6,086 moved forward from the Law and Justice Committee on Feb. 3 after debate over threat-assessment authority for judicial officers and provisions about removing personal information from the internet.

Tim Ford, staff to the committee, said the proposed substitute Foxtrot removes sections requiring removal of personal information from the internet and retains sections authorizing threat assessments for judicial officers. Members then considered several amendments addressing who may conduct threat assessments and what standard qualifies as a threat.

Opponents said outside security consultants could overreach or expand investigations, while supporters argued bailiffs lack the specialized training for complex threat assessments. Senator Torres noted that the legislature had previously expanded bailiff authority and questioned whether hiring consultants would be redundant or costly. Senator Fortunato warned that consultants might interpret routine criticism as threats and trigger investigations.

After discussion, the committee adopted the proposed substitute and recommended the bill 'due pass' to the Rules Committee, subject to signatures. Several pending amendments (referred to as golf, hotel and India) were later ruled out of order for final passage.

Members said additional technical work and possible floor amendments could refine standards and cost implications before the bill reaches the full Senate.