WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 290

AN ACT CLARIFYING THE MEANINGS OF "SEXUAL INTERCOURSE" AND "SEXUAL CONTACT".

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Howard

SB 290 clarifies Connecticut's legal definitions of "sexual intercourse" and "sexual contact" to standardize criminal code language and prosecution consistency.

FILE NO. 495
#generalstatutesofconnecticut #sexualassault
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 290

Legislative bill overview

SB 290 proposes to clarify statutory definitions of "sexual intercourse" and "sexual contact" in Connecticut law. The bill aims to provide clearer legal language around these terms, which appear across multiple statutes related to sexual offenses, consent, and related criminal codes.

Why is this important

Clear statutory definitions are foundational to criminal law enforcement and prosecution. Ambiguous or outdated definitions can lead to inconsistent court interpretations, challenges in prosecuting cases, difficulties in victim protection, and potential due process concerns. Updated definitions may reflect contemporary legal understanding and address gaps that have emerged through case law.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of definitions: Disagreement may arise over whether definitions should be broadly or narrowly construed, affecting which acts are legally classified as sexual contact versus other offenses
  • Consent and capacity issues: Clarifications around sexual contact involving individuals with diminished capacity, intoxication, or age may be controversial depending on how the bill frames legal thresholds
  • Applicability across statutes: Questions about whether these definitions apply uniformly across all relevant Connecticut statutes (assault, harassment, registration requirements, etc.) or vary by context

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.