This bill amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing the offense of stalking. It modifies the grading of stalking offenses by removing the previous reference to paragraph (2) and adding new provisions. A first offense remains a misdemeanor of the first degree, while a second or subsequent offense, or a first offense involving a prior conviction of a violent crime against the same victim, will now be classified as a felony of the third degree. Additionally, if the victim is a minor and the perpetrator is an adult at least four years older, the first offense will be classified as a felony of the second degree, and a second or subsequent offense will be a felony of the first degree.
The bill also introduces new definitions for "Adult" and "Minor," clarifying that an adult is an individual 18 years of age or older, while a minor is defined as an individual under 18 years of age. These changes aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding stalking offenses, particularly in cases involving minors, and enhance the penalties for offenders. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.
Statutes/Laws affected: Printer's No. 2269 (Sep 09, 2025): 18-2709.1(c)