The bill amends existing Louisiana law regarding indecent behavior with juveniles, specifically addressing the elements of such offenses. It modifies R.S. 14:81(A)(1) and (C) and introduces a new provision, R.S. 14:81(A)(3). The amendments clarify that indecent behavior includes not only lewd acts but also the act of "grooming" a child under the age of seventeen, where the offender is at least four years older than the child. Importantly, the bill states that lack of knowledge of the child's age is not a valid defense for either offense.

Additionally, the bill provides a definition for "grooming," describing it as the pursuit of an intimate relationship with a minor through various manipulative means with the intent to commit a sex offense. The language also updates the definition of communication methods to include various forms of electronic and written communication, while correcting the capitalization of "internet." Overall, the bill aims to strengthen protections for minors against sexual offenses by expanding the legal framework surrounding such behaviors.

Statutes affected:
SB58 Original: 15:541(24)
SB58 Engrossed: 15:541(24)
SB58 Reengrossed: 15:541(25)
SB58 Enrolled: 14:81(A)(1)
SB58 Act : 14:81(A)(1)
Senate Floor Bureau Note, #1594, Connick, Adopted: 15:541(25)