HB2146 Summary

• Changes stalking in the first degree from a Class B felony to a Class C felony, and stalking in the second degree from a Class C felony to a Class D felony.

• Modifies stalking definitions to change "purposely" to "knowingly" as the required mental state for first and second degree stalking offenses.

• Establishes civil liability for stalking under new Chapter 127 (Stalker Liability Act), allowing victims to recover actual damages, punitive damages, reasonable attorney's fees, and court costs against persons who knowingly engaged in stalking conduct.

• Civil stalking actions may be brought regardless of whether the defendant was criminally charged or convicted, and do not prevent separate criminal prosecution under stalking statutes.

• Requires victims to file civil stalking actions within one year after the most recent prohibited conduct by the defendant.