The crime of indecent exposure can have significant effects on victims such as feeling violated, distressed and unsafe. Under current law in Pennsylvania, indecent exposure is a misdemeanor of the first degree if the victim is less than 16 years of age and in all other cases, the crime is a misdemeanor of the second degree. It is important that those who engage in this act of sexual misconduct understand the consequences and harms of their behavior.

For this reason, I plan to introduce legislation that would increase the penalty for indecent exposure. According to my legislation, if the victim is under 16 years of age, indecent exposure would be a misdemeanor of the first degree for a first offense and a felony of the third degree for a second or subsequent offense. In all other cases, a first offense would be a misdemeanor of the second degree; a second offense would be a misdemeanor of the first degree; and a third or subsequent offense would be a felony of the third degree.

The intention of this legislation is to promote consent and boundaries, while holding those accountable who engage in indecent exposure. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation so that we may further support victims of indecent exposure.