This bill amends existing Kansas law regarding crimes related to trespassing and criminal damage to critical infrastructure facilities. It specifically defines "critical infrastructure facility" to include various telecommunications and video service components, such as aboveground and belowground lines, cables, and associated equipment. The bill outlines the definitions and penalties for trespassing and criminal damage to these facilities, categorizing trespassing as a class A nonperson misdemeanor and aggravated trespassing as a severity level 7 nonperson felony. Similarly, criminal damage is classified as a severity level 6 nonperson felony, while aggravated criminal damage is a severity level 5 nonperson felony.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing section K.S.A. 21-5818, which previously governed these offenses, and replaces it with the newly defined terms and penalties. The new legal language emphasizes the importance of protecting critical infrastructure and provides a clearer framework for prosecuting offenses related to these facilities. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-5818
As Amended by House Committee: 21-5818
As Amended by Senate Committee: 21-5818
Enrolled: 21-5818