HI HB2064

Removes "or burial" from the existing desecration statute that applies to places of worship, creating a separate offense for grave desecration.

Creates new offense for intentional or negligent desecration of a grave or other place of burial, lowering the mens rea requirement from intent to include negligence.

Maintains criminal penalties of imprisonment not exceeding one year, a fine not exceeding $10,000, or both for desecration offenses.

Preserves the definition of "desecrate" as defacing, damaging, polluting, or otherwise physically mistreating in a way that the defendant knows will outrage the sensibilities of persons likely to observe or discover the action.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date.