House Bill No. 5542 aims to clarify and expand the definitions of criminal and simple trespass as they pertain to school grounds and buildings. The bill modifies existing statutes by explicitly including school grounds, parking lots, athletic fields, and school buildings within the definitions of first, second, and third-degree trespass. It specifies that a person can be charged with first-degree trespass if they enter or remain on these premises after being ordered to leave by an authorized official, which now includes officials from local or regional boards of education. The bill also updates the definitions for second and third-degree trespass to encompass school buildings and grounds.

Additionally, the bill redefines simple trespass to include entering or remaining on school grounds and buildings without intent to harm property. The penalties for these offenses remain unchanged, with first-degree trespass classified as a class A misdemeanor, second-degree as a class B misdemeanor, and third-degree as a class C misdemeanor, while simple trespass is categorized as an infraction. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and are intended to enhance the protection of school environments by clearly outlining the legal consequences of trespassing in these areas.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
JUD Joint Favorable:
File No. 632: