AN ACT relating to violent offenders.

HB 98 amends Kentucky's definition of "violent offender" in KRS 439.3401 to explicitly include kidnapping convictions. This change directly affects individuals convicted of kidnapping, expanding the category of offenses that trigger stricter sentencing rules under existing law. The bill does not alter sentencing penalties but ensures that kidnapping cases are treated under the same framework as other violent offenses. This means convicted kidnappers will now be subject to the same minimum sentence requirements and parole restrictions as those convicted of other listed violent crimes. The amendment applies to offenses committed after July 15, 1998, as specified in the bill.