The bill amends Section 30-9-12 of the New Mexico Statutes regarding criminal sexual contact by eliminating the requirement that non-consensual touching must involve unclothed intimate parts. The revised definition allows for the unlawful and intentional touching of intimate parts without the necessity of them being unclothed. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the term "intimate parts" encompasses the primary genital area, groin, buttocks, anus, or breast, and specifies that individuals who commit criminal sexual contact in the fourth degree will be guilty of a fourth degree felony.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the classification of criminal sexual contact, stating that it is a misdemeanor when perpetrated with the use of force or coercion. The previous language that defined criminal sexual contact as a misdemeanor has been removed, and the new legal language establishes a clearer framework for understanding the severity of the offense based on the circumstances of the act. This legislative change aims to enhance the protection of individuals from sexual offenses by broadening the scope of what constitutes criminal sexual contact.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-9-12