Signal jammers.

Senator Wahab's proposal to regulate signal jamming devices in California establishes a three-tiered system of penalties while aligning state enforcement with existing federal prohibitions on radio interference. The legislation creates new criminal classifications for manufacturing, selling, or operating devices that block wireless communications without Federal Communications Commission authorization.

Under the measure, unauthorized possession or operation of signal jammers becomes an infraction punishable by device forfeiture and fines up to $5,000. Using jammers while committing other crimes elevates the offense to a misdemeanor or felony, carrying potential imprisonment and similar fines. The most severe penalties - prison terms of two to six years - apply to individuals who deliberately disrupt public safety communications systems used by emergency responders. The bill exempts law enforcement agencies from these restrictions.

The proposal builds upon current state laws addressing radio interference and speed detection countermeasures by specifically defining signal jammers as devices that intentionally block authorized wireless communications. While federal law already prohibits manufacturing and operating such devices, this measure creates a state enforcement framework with graduated penalties based on the circumstances and severity of violations. Local agencies would implement these new criminal provisions without state reimbursement, as the measure creates new offenses rather than mandating specific programs.