Briggs anti-swatting bill passes House
Southeast Delegation February 4, 2026 | 9:19 AM
HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, to strengthen penalties for swatting incidents targeting school entities and institutions of higher education passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today and now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
House Bill 1935 would increase penalties for anyone convicted of making fake emergency reports—commonly known as “swatting”—that target school entities and institutions of higher education. Specifically, the bill would require the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to provide for a sentencing enhancement in cases involving a terroristic threat against a school entity or an institution of higher education. It also allows judges to order restitution to cover the cost of emergency responses, supplies, equipment and overtime pay for first responders and affected employees.
“Swatting is not a prank — it’s a dangerous and costly crime that puts lives at risk, wastes valuable resources, and causes real trauma,” Briggs said. “We saw this firsthand when a false report of an active shooter at Villanova University last year led to a massive police response. Dozens of public schools, colleges and universities across Pennsylvania have faced these types of threats, and it’s time to send a clear message that there will be serious consequences.”
In August 2025, Villanova University—located near Briggs’ legislative district—was one of several Pennsylvania institutions targeted by false active shooter calls. The incidents prompted lockdowns, large-scale law enforcement responses, and widespread fear on campus, even though the reports turned out to be hoaxes.
Under current law, making a terroristic threat is already a crime in Pennsylvania. House Bill 1935 would build upon existing statutes by ensuring tougher sentences and financial accountability for offenders who intentionally target schools with false reports or threats.
“Students, staff and visitors to schools and campuses across our state deserve to feel safe where they learn and work,” Briggs said. “This bill protects our communities, deters those who would exploit emergency response systems, and ensures that justice includes restitution for the people and agencies affected.”
The bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support and will now be considered by the Senate.
Briggs represents the 149th Legislative District, which is comprised of Bridgeport, West Conshohocken, Upper Merion and parts of Lower Merion in Montgomery County.
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CONTACT: Ryan Bevitz
House Democratic Communications Office
Phone: 717-787-7895
Email: rbevitz@pahouse.net
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