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 as knowingly and without lawful authority engaging in various acts, including intercepting private communications, surreptitiously listening to conversations, and using 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 severity level 5 or off-grid person felonies depending on the age of the victim and the offender.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 21-6101, thereby updating the legal framework surrounding privacy violations. The new language clarifies the definitions and penalties associated with different types of privacy breaches, ensuring that offenses against minors are treated with greater severity. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book, reinforcing the state's commitment to protecting personal rights and enhancing penalties for violations that exploit vulnerable individuals.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-6101