§ 750.465aOperation of audiovisual device in theatrical facility; prohibited conduct;

violation; exception; definitions.
 Sec. 465a.
    (1) A person who knowingly operates an audiovisual recording function of a device in a
 theatrical facility where a motion picture is being exhibited without the consent of the owner
 or lessee of that theatrical facility and of the licensor of the motion picture being exhibited is
 guilty of a crime as follows:
    (a) Except as provided in subdivisions (b) and (c), the person is guilty of a misdemeanor
 punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $10,000.00, or
 both.




                                                                   Michigan Compiled Laws Complete Through PA 91 of 2026
Rendered Sunday, September 6, 2026             Page 379 of 465                              Courtesy of legislature.mi.gov

    (b) If the person has 1 prior conviction for violating this subsection, the person is guilty of a
 felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 2 years or a fine of not more than
 $20,000.00, or both.
    (c) If the person has 2 or more prior convictions for violating this subsection, the person is
 guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 4 years or a fine of not more
 than $40,000.00, or both.
    (2) This section does not prevent any lawfully authorized investigative, law enforcement,
 protective, or intelligence-gathering employee or agent, of this state or the United States, from
 operating the audiovisual recording function of a device in a theatrical facility where a motion
 picture is being exhibited as part of an investigative, protective, law enforcement, or
 intelligence-gathering activity.
    (3) This section does not prohibit a person from being charged with, convicted of, or
 punished for any other violation of law that proscribes conduct described in this section and
 that provides a greater penalty.
    (4) As used in this section:
    (a) "Audiovisual recording function" means the capability of a device to record or transmit a
 motion picture or any part of a motion picture by technological means.
    (b) "Theatrical facility" means a facility being used to exhibit a motion picture to the public,
 but does not include an individual's residence or a retail establishment.