Bill that strengthens stalking law clears committee

The House Judiciary Committee on Judiciary has passed HB 521, a measure sponsored by House Majority Leader Steven Rudy, R-Paducah, which would strengthen protections for victims of stalking and close gaps in current law.

The issue was brought to Rudy’s attention by the Kentucky REALTORS after learning of recent stalking incidents experienced by their members. These experiences highlighted the unique vulnerabilities faced by individuals in client-facing professions and the need for clearer statutory protection to address evolving stalking behaviors. Rudy also collaborated with the KY Association of Sexual Assault Programs on the bill. 

“Stalking is not simply a harmless act, it is a pattern of behavior that often escalates and can leave victims living in fear,” Rudy said. “HB 521 would ensure our laws better reflect the real-world patterns of stalking we are seeing today and give law enforcement and prosecutors the tools they need to intervene before situations become even more dangerous.”

HB 521 would strengthen protections for survivors by capturing real-world stalking patterns that frequently intersect with sexual violence. By modernizing statutory language and broadening the scope of conduct covered under the law, the measure allows for meaningful intervention before escalation and helps reduce the risk of further harm.

Stalking and sexual violence are deeply intertwined. National research shows that nearly 48 percent of sexual assault survivors ages 18–24 also experience stalking. Additionally, 16 percent report that their stalker shared or threatened to share intimate images or videos. These overlapping forms of victimization demonstrate the urgent need for laws that recognize the connection between stalking behaviors and other forms of abuse.

“HB 521 represents a proactive step toward victim safety and accountability,” Rudy added. “By closing existing loopholes in our statutes, we ensure that our laws finally mirror the gravity of these crimes.”

The measure moves to the full House for consideration. To learn more about HB 521, go to legislature.ky.gov.