Bill > HB1464

This bill modifies and establishes provisions relating to the protection of children and vulnerable persons, with a significant focus on changing terminology from "child pornography" to "child sexual abuse material" and updating various legal statutes related to sexual offenses involving minors. Key provisions include expanding the definition of sexual abuse material to include anatomically correct dolls or items resembling minors, increasing age thresholds in several statutes (such as changing the age of consent from 14 to 17 or 18 in different contexts), and extending statutes of limitations for sexual abuse cases. The bill also creates new funds for education and awareness about child sexual exploitation, modifies registration requirements for sex offenders, and provides more comprehensive protections for child victims by allowing more flexible testimony and evidence rules. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions to assist prosecutors in child sex trafficking cases, establishes stricter penalties for sexual offenses involving minors, and provides more comprehensive support for victims through restitution and legal protections. The comprehensive nature of the bill reflects an effort to modernize and strengthen legal frameworks surrounding child protection and sexual abuse.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1464&year=2025&code=R