This bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 21-6101 to increase the criminal penalties for certain violations of breach of privacy, particularly when the victim is a child. The bill defines "breach of privacy" and outlines various actions that constitute this offense, including unauthorized interception of communications, surreptitious observation, and the use of devices to record individuals without consent. Notably, the bill establishes that violations involving victims under 18 years of age will incur more severe penalties, including classifying certain offenses as person felonies with varying severity levels based on the circumstances of the crime.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 21-6101, effectively replacing it with the newly amended language. The amendments specify that certain breaches of privacy, particularly those involving minors, will be treated as more serious offenses, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenders and those targeting vulnerable individuals. The bill aims to strengthen protections for personal rights and privacy, particularly for children, in response to growing concerns about privacy violations in the digital age.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-6101