Pennsylvania HB1531 creates the offense of child torture, defining it as a felony of the first degree.

Pennsylvania HB1531 amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to add a section on child torture. It defines the offense as a felony of the first degree when a person intentionally or knowingly engages in a course of conduct against a child that includes torture, physical assault, unreasonable confinement, unreasonable activity, or failure to provide care. The bill specifies that expert testimony on mental anguish or psychological abuse is not required for conviction, and it exempts actions taken for the child's welfare by parents or guardians.

Pennsylvania HB1531 creates the offense of child torture, defining it as a felony of the first degree.

Pennsylvania HB1531 amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to add a section on child torture. It defines the offense as a felony of the first degree when a person intentionally or knowingly engages in a course of conduct against a child that includes torture, physical assault, unreasonable confinement, unreasonable activity, or failure to provide care. The bill specifies that expert testimony on mental anguish or psychological abuse is not required for conviction, and it exempts actions taken for the child's welfare by parents or guardians.