HB4

AN ACT relating to grooming a minor.

Complete·4/10/26

Kentucky HB4 criminalizes grooming a minor with penalties based on the minor's age.

HB4 amends Kentucky law to define and penalize grooming a minor. Grooming is defined as behavior directed at a minor under 14, intended to entice or prepare them for sexual conduct. Penalties range from a Class A misdemeanor for older minors to a Class D felony for those under 12. The bill also outlines exceptions for lawful communication, such as teaching or reporting abuse.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

DDD
3
39
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Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

92 Yea

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0 Nay

8 Absent

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Calendar

Mar 19

9:00 AM

Senate Committee On Judiciary

Jan 28

10:00 AM

House Committee On Judiciary

History

Apr 10

House

signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 65)

Mar 31

House

posted for passage for concurrence in Senate

Mar 31

House

House concurred in Committee Substitute (1)