To prevent aiding, supporting, or enticing a child to runaway

The bill makes it illegal to help or encourage a child under 18 to run away from their parents or guardians without permission. If someone helps a child under 18 run away, they could face up to a year in jail or a $1,000 fine. If the child is under 14, the penalties are higher: up to 5 years in prison. If someone helps a child run away from the state's child services or foster care, the penalties are even more severe, with fines starting at $2,500 and potential prison time of up to 10 years. The law also imposes stricter penalties for these actions near schools or child care facilities.

Supporters of the bill would likely emphasize that it aims to protect children by making it a serious offense to entice them away from safe environments. It seeks to curb potential exploitation of minors and reinforce the responsibility of adults to uphold the safety and welfare of children. By imposing stricter penalties near schools, the bill further ensures the safety of educational and childcare spaces, acting as a deterrent against potential offenders.

Critics might argue that the bill criminalizes situations that may arise from complicated family or social issues, imposing harsh penalties without addressing underlying causes. They may express concerns about the broad definition of 'enticement' and its potential to penalize individuals who may not intend harm. Critics could also highlight the punitive focus of the bill, suggesting it may not effectively prevent runaway situations without additional supportive measures for children who feel compelled to leave home.