New legislation introduced this week by Assemblymember Jim Cooper, D-Elk Grove, would prohibit the sale of encrypted smartphones in California as of 2017.
AB 1681 would stipulate penalties of $2,500 for each smartphone knowingly sold or leased which is "not capable of being decrypted and unlocked by its manufacturer or its operating system provider."
"It's time that we put women and children first and combat #humantrafficking. AB 1681 would restore a critical investigative tool and help law enforcement apprehend and prosecute suspects that commit crimes against women and children," Cooper posted on Instagram on Wednesday.
Cooper introduced the bill during a press conference at the State Capitol. The legislation's supporters include the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, Sacramento County Deputy Sheriffs' Association and the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office.
According to The Hill, Cooper's measure mirrors a similar bill introduced in New York.
AB 1681 is pending referral in the Assembly.
