KS SB493

Adds a new offense to Kansas sexual exploitation of a child statute (K.S.A. 21-5510) criminalizing online grooming—engaging in a pattern of conduct or communication through electronic devices, social media, text messages, or other means to gain access to, build trust with, or coerce a child under 18 to engage in sexually explicit conduct or unlawful sexual activity

Applies to communications made in person, through a third party, or by electronic means, and covers situations where the offender believes the person to be under 18 years of age

Classifies the new grooming offense as a severity level 5 person felony, the same penalty level as possession of child sexual abuse material

Amends existing law by repealing K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 21-5510 and replacing it with the updated version

Takes effect upon publication in the Kansas statute book