It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

SECTION 1. Section 11-59-1 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-59 entitled "Stalking" is hereby amended to read as follows:

{ADD 11-59-1. Definitions. -- ADD} For the purpose of this chapter:

(a) "Harasses" means a knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person which seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses the person, and which serves no legitimate purpose. The course of conduct must be such as would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, {DEL and must actually cause substantial emotional distress to the person. DEL} {ADD or be in fear of bodily injury. ADD}

(b) "Course of conduct" means a pattern of conduct composed of a series of acts over a period of time, evidencing a continuity of purpose. Constitutionally protected activity is not included within the meaning of "course of conduct."

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.