Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill to
Combat Crime, Bolster Public Safety

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed House Bill 2347 to strengthen public safety by amending and creating laws related specifically to crimes of theft, buying sexual relations, criminal use of a financial card, and unlawful use of a laser pointer.

“This bipartisan bill takes reasonable steps to ensure that Kansans are safe and that crime is being addressed in our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Enhancing public safety is essential to building a Kansas where businesses and families want to put down roots.”

Under House Bill 2347, criminal penalties will increase for buying sexual relations, which includes increasing the minimum fine from $1,200 to $2,000 and implementing more stringent educational and treatment programs for offenders.

“House Bill 2347 ensures that Kansas law enforcement possess the tools necessary to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” said Senator Kenny Titus, District 18. “Enhanced penalties and enforcement tools contained in the bill will reduce the demand for human trafficking and allow for easier prosecution of scamsters using gift cards to take advantage of vulnerable Kansans.”

The bill also amends criminal use of a financial card to include gift cards when used to commit fraud or to inappropriately obtain money, goods, property, or services. Additionally, House Bill 2347 would make theft of a motor vehicle that is valued between $500 and $1,500 a severity level 10 nonperson felony.

“From addressing theft to cracking down on fraud, House Bill 2347 makes wide-ranging changes to combat crime in Kansas,” said Representative Dan Osman, District 48. “I’m proud to support this bipartisan, commonsense legislation that will make Kansas communities safer.”

House Bill 2347 also creates the crime of unlawful use of a laser pointer when knowingly directing light at an on-duty law enforcement officer or an aircraft in flight. Anyone who commits the crime may be subject to assault or battery charges.

In addition to House Bill 2347, Governor Kelly also signed House Bill 2183, which codifies existing practice related to judicial deference to state agencies’ interpretation of rules and regulations.

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