The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5542, aims to amend existing laws regarding criminal and simple trespass specifically on school grounds and in school buildings. The bill introduces new language that expands the definition of criminal trespass in the first, second, and third degrees to explicitly include actions taken on school grounds, such as entering or remaining in school buildings, parking lots, or athletic fields without authorization. It also specifies that trespassing can occur after an order to leave has been communicated by an authorized official from the state, municipality, or local education board. The penalties for these offenses remain classified as misdemeanors, with varying degrees based on the severity of the trespass.

Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of simple trespass to include actions on school grounds and buildings, categorizing it as an infraction. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026. Overall, the bill seeks to clarify and strengthen the legal framework surrounding trespassing in educational environments, ensuring that school officials have the authority to manage unauthorized access to their properties effectively.

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