The bill amends Section 18-1509A of the Idaho Code, which addresses the crime of enticing a child through the use of the internet or other communication devices. Key changes include the clarification of the age of the perpetrator, specifying that a person must be "of age" eighteen (18) years or older to be guilty of a felony for soliciting a child. The term "child" is now defined to include individuals under sixteen (16) years of age, as well as those who are sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) years old when the perpetrator is at least five (5) years older.
Additionally, the bill makes technical corrections and clarifies that it is not necessary for the prosecution to prove that a sexual act actually occurred for a conviction under this section. The penalties for violations remain the same, with a maximum imprisonment of fifteen (15) years. The bill declares an emergency, stating that it will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 18-1509A