Wiretapping: authorization.

Existing law establishes a procedure for a prosecutor to apply for, and a court to issue, an order authorizing law enforcement to intercept a wire or electronic communication. Existing law requires the Attorney General to prepare and submit an annual report to the Legislature, the Judicial Council, and the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts regarding these interceptions, as specified. Existing law provides that a violation of these provisions is punishable as a misdemeanor with specified penalties, or as a felony. Existing law further provides that these provisions shall remain in effect until January 1, 2015. This bill would extend the operation of these provisions until January 1, 2020. By extending the operation of provisions of law that create a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.