Senate approves bill on grooming of children after debate over intent requirement

The Wyoming Senate approved House Bill 9, an act addressing grooming of children, after a short floor debate centered on how the statute defines criminal intent.

Senator Case rose to ask for reassurances that the measure would not sweep in well-meaning adults who might counsel or support minors. He said some children may seek counsel from teachers, pastors or neighbors and he wanted to ensure those adults would not be prosecuted in such situations.

Senator Olson, speaking in support of the bill’s language, said the statute contains multiple mens rea elements. Olson told the Senate the crime requires purposeful and knowing conduct, a pattern of behavior (not a single isolated incident), and specific intent to induce or prepare a minor for sexual conduct or exploitation. "So I don't think this law would capture the teacher, or the counselor, or the pastor," Olson said.

After that exchange the Senate proceeded to third reading and called the roll. The clerk recorded the bill as passing the Senate by the recorded affirmative vote of the majority; the roll-call summary reported 31 "I" votes for passage.

What happens next: House Bill 9, having passed the Senate, will be transmitted consistent with legislative procedures for further action.