Which age group must be protected from lewd acts to elevate the offense to felony level?

The correct answer is that individuals under 16 years of age must be protected from lewd acts to elevate the offense to felony level. This legislation is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of minors who are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. By establishing such a threshold, the law aims to provide stronger deterrents against criminal behavior directed at younger individuals, acknowledging their developmental stage and need for protection from sexual exploitation.

The choice of age 16 reflects a recognition in legal terms of the age of consent and the understanding that individuals under this age may not be fully able to understand or consent to sexual acts. The laws are designed to address the power imbalance that can exist in such interactions, thereby prioritizing the rights and protection of minors.

In contrast, options that suggest higher age thresholds do not reflect the same level of legal protection intended for younger children who are at a greater developmental disadvantage. As such, the focus on those under 16 serves to emphasize the legal system's commitment to safeguarding younger individuals from harmful situations.