Bill > S858

This bill amends existing law to create a new provision that prohibits any person from knowingly enticing a child under the age of 16, or someone they believe to be under 16, to enter into any vehicle without the permission of the child's parent, guardian, or legal custodian, unless certain exceptions apply. These exceptions include individuals acting in their official capacity as law enforcement officers, emergency service providers, firefighters, or those operating bookmobiles or similar vehicles for educational or transportation purposes for children, as well as paid employees or volunteers of nonprofit or religious organizations that provide children's activities. The bill also clarifies that even individuals in these excepted roles are not protected if they are not acting within the scope of their lawful duties. Importantly, the bill establishes an affirmative defense, meaning the accused can present evidence to show they acted in response to a genuine emergency or a reasonable belief that their actions were necessary to protect the child's health, safety, or welfare.