AGGRAVATED BURGLARY & HOME INVASION CRIMES

SB 153 creates a new crime called "home invasion" for unlawful entry into a dwelling while an occupant is present, with intent to commit a felony or theft. It specifically targets intruders who are armed with a deadly weapon, become armed after entering, or commit threatening acts causing reasonable fear of immediate harm. The bill amends existing aggravated burglary law by removing "dwelling" as a specific category, meaning aggravated burglary now applies to vehicles, watercraft, aircraft, or other structures (not just homes). This law directly affects individuals entering homes unlawfully and will guide prosecutors and courts in classifying such offenses as a second-degree felony.