The bill amends existing Kansas laws regarding sexual exploitation of children and unlawful transmission of visual depictions of minors. It introduces new definitions and clarifications, particularly concerning the possession of visual depictions of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Notably, it specifies that possessing any visual depiction of a child under 18 years of age, or an artificially generated visual depiction, with the intent to arouse or satisfy sexual desires is a criminal offense. The bill also establishes that sexual exploitation of a child can be classified as a severity level 3 or 5 felony, depending on the circumstances, and introduces harsher penalties for offenders who are 18 years or older and exploit children under 14.

Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "breach of privacy" to include the unlawful transmission of visual depictions of identifiable children in a state of nudity, with specific penalties outlined for such actions. It also clarifies that the provisions do not apply to instances where the child depicted is the one transmitting the image. The bill repeals certain existing statutes and introduces new legal language to enhance the protection of minors against sexual exploitation and unauthorized visual depictions. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen legal measures against child exploitation and enhance penalties for offenders.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-5510, 21-5611, 21-6101
As Amended by House Committee: 21-5510, 21-5611, 21-6101
{As Amended by House Committee of the Whole}: 21-5510, 21-5611, 21-6101
As Amended by Senate Committee: 21-5510, 21-5611, 21-6101