relative to the offense of endangering the welfare of a child or incompetent.

HB 1185 redefines the crime of endangering a child under 18 or an incompetent person by clarifying that failing to provide necessary care (negligent) is a class A misdemeanor, while knowingly causing danger is a class B felony. A second or subsequent offense automatically becomes a class B felony, and if careless actions cause serious injury or death, the penalty escalates to a class A felony. The law applies to individuals with a duty of care, such as caregivers or guardians, and takes effect January 1, 2027. This bill updates penalties without creating new financial obligations for the state or local governments.