Cell-Site Simulator Warrant Act of 2023

The Cell-Site Simulator Warrant Act of 2023 requires law enforcement agencies to obtain a court warrant before using cell-site simulators (devices that mimic cell towers to track or intercept mobile device communications) in most situations. The bill sets strict warrant requirements, including demonstrating that other investigative methods have failed, specifying the narrowest possible area and time frame for use, and disclosing potential disruptions to emergency communications like 911 calls. It limits warrant authorization to 30 days with possible 30-day extensions, requires minimizing disruption to non-targeted communications, and mandates destruction of information about people not under investigation. Exceptions include emergency situations (with 48-hour warrant application requirement), intelligence community activities under existing laws, research, and correctional facility contraband interdiction systems.