State Rep. Joseph Pavlov last week voted to strengthen Michigan’s criminal sexual conduct laws and ensure penalties for sexual violence reflect the severity of the crime.. 

“Victims of sexual violence can live with the consequences of these crimes long after they occur,” said Pavlov (R-Smiths Creek). “Our laws should reflect the seriousness of these offenses while ensuring those who commit them are held accountable. This plan strengthens penalties for these crimes and makes clear that Michigan will take sexual violence seriously.” 

House Bills 6259 through 6263 address each degree of criminal sexual conduct. The package establishes stronger minimum penalties for first-, second-, and third-degree offenses. It also reclassifies fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct from a misdemeanor to a felony. 

The package now moves to the Senate for consideration.