Governor Kathleen Sebelius has signed a bill to help law enforcement officers intervene earlier in cases of stalking.

“This bill will allow law enforcement officers to get involved sooner in these potentially dangerous situations and is intended to get dangerous criminals off the street before they harm the person they are stalking,” Sebelius said.

Sebelius also said, “My thoughts and prayers are with Jodi Sanderholm’s family, friends, and community, as this bill becomes law.”

The new law broadens and clarifies the definition of stalking and imposes stronger penalties for intentional or reckless behavior. This bill also removes the “credible threat” requirement existing in current law. By removing this requirement, law enforcement officers will be able to intervene more effectively when responding to an allegation of stalking, and successful prosecution of those cases. This bill goes into effect after its publication in the statute book.

Sebelius also signed six other bills into law today, bringing the total number of bills signed in the 2008 Legislative Session to 138 with three having been vetoed.