House votes to expand definition of stalking

Estimated read time: Less than a minute

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Sending unwanted text messages or e-mails could soon be considered stalking in Utah.

The House voted Friday to update the state's definition of stalking.

Actions that cause distress, such as sending messages, taking photographs or repeatedly showing up at friends' or relatives' homes, would be stalking under the proposal.

Delivering items to someone's home or workplace could also be considered stalking under House Bill 493. The measure is supported by prosecutors and victim advocates.

HB 493 will now be heard in the Senate.