Bill > HB0189

This bill creates a new law in Wyoming that criminalizes sexual communication with minors, defining "obscene" communication as including explicit sexual descriptions, requests for sexual images, attempts to normalize adult-minor sexual contact, and other sexually inappropriate content. The law applies to adults 18 or older who are more than four years older than the minor and who engage in a pattern of communication with the intent of personal sexual gratification. Violations are classified as felonies with escalating penalties: first offense carries up to 5 years in prison and a $1,000-$5,000 fine, second offense up to 10 years and $10,000 fine, and third or subsequent offenses up to 20 years and $20,000 fine. Additional consequences include potential prohibition from social media during incarceration, probation, or parole, and forfeiture of communication devices. The bill also allows minor victims or their parents/guardians to bring civil actions for damages, independent of criminal proceedings. Exceptions exist for age-appropriate sex education and certain marital situations. The law aims to protect minors from sexually predatory communication by establishing clear legal boundaries and significant penalties for offenders.

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https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0189