Substitute Senate Bill No. 259 seeks to criminalize female genital mutilation (FGM) for individuals under the age of eighteen, classifying it as a class D felony, which carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000. The bill defines FGM to include the circumcision, excision, or infibulation of any part of the labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris of minors, while allowing exceptions for medically necessary procedures performed by licensed healthcare professionals. Notably, the bill introduces new provisions permitting individuals in training to become licensed physicians or nurse-midwives to perform such operations under specific conditions.

In addition to criminalizing FGM, the bill amends existing laws regarding the testimony of child victims in related cases, allowing for testimony to be taken outside the courtroom to protect the child's well-being. It also enables victims to pursue civil actions for damages against violators of the FGM provisions, removing the immunity typically granted between parents and children in these cases. The statute of limitations for victims to bring personal injury actions related to FGM is extended to thirty years after they reach the age of eighteen, significantly increasing the timeframe compared to the existing three-year limit for civil torts. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-86g, 54-86h
File No. 586: 54-86g, 54-86h