In response to advances in modern social media and GPS technology, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, tells Regional Radio she is supporting a bill that protects potential stalking victims from new methods of surveillance and increases penalties for violators.

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Scherer is co-sponsoring House Bill 242, which updates stalking laws by prohibiting the use of digital technology to electronically track another person. Currently, electronic monitoring is only illegal if the stalker places a tracking device on another person or their property. Advances of social media and smart phone technology, however, have made electronic monitoring possible without the use of a tracking device. Additionally, the bill will also punish those convicted of aggravated stalking with up to 15 years in prison if their victims suffer severe and permanent disabilities or disfigurement.