The bill amends K.S.A. 21-5924 to clarify the definitions and penalties associated with the violation of protective orders in the state of Kansas. It specifies that violations can include various types of protective orders, such as those related to abuse, stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking, as well as orders issued during criminal proceedings that restrict contact with another person. The penalties for violating these orders are categorized as a Class A person misdemeanor for first offenses and escalate to a severity level 7 person felony for second or subsequent convictions. Additionally, violations of extended protective orders are classified as severity level 6 person felonies, with increased penalties for repeat offenses.

The bill also includes a provision that allows attorneys representing defendants in civil or criminal proceedings to contact protected parties for legitimate purposes, provided they identify themselves. Furthermore, the bill repeals the existing K.S.A. 21-5924, indicating a significant update to the legal framework surrounding protective orders in Kansas. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-5924