KY HB4

Creates a new crime of "grooming a minor" under KRS Chapter 510, defined as a pattern of conduct using manipulation or trust-building to facilitate sexual conduct or normalize sexual behavior with a minor

Adults 18+ targeting minors under 14 face a Class A misdemeanor, escalating to a Class D felony if the victim is under 12; persons in positions of authority targeting minors under 18 face a Class D felony, escalating to Class C felony if the victim is under 12

Defines "grooming behavior" as a course of conduct (two or more acts) intended to establish emotional connection through manipulation to facilitate or normalize sexual conduct, whether occurring online, in person, or through third parties

Exempts legitimate communications including sex education curriculum, school district employee communications, healthcare treatment, child welfare assessments, parent-child discussions about puberty, and job-related duties

Amends multiple professional licensing statutes (educators, massage therapists, physicians, nurses, EMS personnel, behavior analysts, physical therapists, social workers) to incorporate updated cross-references to the revised sexual offenses definitions