The bill would amend the Penal Code as it relates the offense of stalking.  Under current law it is an offense to engage in conduct that is threatening towards another person's property.  The bill clarifies that property includes a pet, companion animal, or assistance animal.  The offense of stalking is punishable as a third degree felony or a second degree felony, depending upon the circumstances. 

A third degree felony is punishable by confinement in prison for a term of two to ten years and, in addition to confinement, an optional fine not to exceed $10,000.  A second degree felony is punishable by confinement in prison for a term of two to twenty years and, in addition to confinement, an optional fine not to exceed $10,000.

The bill's provisions broaden the definition for the offense of stalking.  This change is expected to increase demands on state correctional resources by increasing the number of offenders eligible for confinement in state correctional facilities.

However, it is assumed that the number of offenders supervised or incarcerated under this statute would not significantly impact state correctional agency resources.  In fiscal year 2012, there were 321 arrests, 106 community supervision placements, and 43 admissions to prison for the offense of stalking.