Senate Bill 671 aims to create a new crime of grooming a child for sexual activity, defining it as engaging in a course of conduct intended to condition, seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a child for sexual purposes. The bill outlines specific behaviors that could constitute grooming, such as sexualized verbal comments, inappropriate physical contact, and isolating a child. Penalties for this crime vary based on the offender's relationship to the child and the circumstances of the offense, with classifications ranging from a Class G felony to a Class D felony for more severe cases, such as those involving multiple children or a known disability of the child. Additionally, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of this crime must register as sex offenders.

The bill also amends various sections of current law to include the newly created crime of grooming, specifically adding the section 948.072 to the list of offenses that can affect legal proceedings and penalties related to child safety and sexual offenses. This includes amendments to existing statutes concerning the treatment of individuals with prior convictions for sexual offenses, ensuring that the new crime is recognized in contexts such as child custody, employment, and parole decisions. The bill reflects a comprehensive approach to enhancing protections for children against sexual exploitation and abuse.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 48.345(3)(a)2, 48.345, 48.345(3)(b)2, 48.685(4m)(b)2, 48.685, 48.685(4m)(b)2m, 50.065(1)(e)2, 50.065, 51.20(13)(ct)2m, 51.20, 111.335(1m)(b)1, 111.335, 111.335(1m)(d)1, 165.93(1)(b), 165.93, 301.046(4)(b)(intro.), 301.046, 301.048(4m)(b)(intro.), 301.048, 301.45(1d)(b), 301.45, 302.05(3)(a)1, 302.05, 302.105(2)(intro.), 302.105, 302.116(1)(a), 302.116, 303.068(4m)(b)(intro.), 303.068, 304.06(1)(d)1, 304.06