Current law defines sexual assault as occurring when a person knowingly subjects another person to any sort of sexual contact without consent. The proposed legislation from today's hearing would increase the penalties for repeat sexual offenders. Montana's current code fails to provide enhanced penalties for repeat sexual assault offenses. The law considers any sexual assault offense as a misdemeanor. This surprises many people, considering the fact that there are many other misdemeanor offenses that do have enhanced penalties for repeat convictions- some of these include stalking, partner or family member assault, indecent exposure, and cruelty to animals. Proponents of House Bill 102 claim that these enhancements are needed for sexual assault as well. They also emphasize that the purpose of the bill is not only to penalize repeat offenders, but to provide them with treatment as well. Traditionally, there is a pattern of escalating predatory behavior associated with sexual assault crimes. The bill's supporters say this is all the more reason why these offenders should be met with increased penalties. Today's committee hearing was one of the first steps toward getting House Bill 102 passed. It is clear that there is passion on all sides of this delicate and serious issue.