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New bill makes forcibly kissing someone under 18 a crime in Utah

Posted at 1:29 PM, Feb 22, 2016
and last updated 2016-02-23 09:00:36-05

SALT LAKE CITY — A bill unveiled in the Utah State Legislature seeks to make “forcibly kissing” a minor a crime in the state.

House Bill 407, sponsored by Rep. Johnny Anderson, R-Taylorsville, puts “forcibly kissing” someone under the lewdness statutes. The severity of the crime is increased the younger the victim is. The legislation points out the kissing must be without the victim’s permission.

The potential crime can range from a misdemeanor to a felony.