This bill amends existing Iowa law to address sexual abuse that occurs through fraud, concealment, or artifice regarding a person's marital status. It specifically adds new language to define sexual abuse in the context of obtaining consent through deception about marital status, stating that if a person intentionally deceives another regarding their marital status, and a reasonable person would not have consented but for that deception, it constitutes sexual abuse. The bill also modifies the definition of sexual abuse in the third degree to include situations where consent is obtained through such fraudulent means.

Additionally, the bill establishes that sexual abuse in the third degree, as defined by these new provisions, is classified as a class C felony, which carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years of confinement and a fine ranging from $1,370 to $13,660. Furthermore, individuals convicted under this bill will be required to register as tier III sex offenders. The amendments aim to enhance legal protections against sexual abuse by ensuring that consent obtained through deception is recognized as a serious offense.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 692A.102, 709.4