To provide that it is unlawful to knowingly distribute private intimate visual depictions with reckless disregard for the individual’s lack of consent to the distribution, and for other purposes.
Sponsors
Legislative Progress
ReportedReported by Mr. Durbin, with an amendment
Ms. Klobuchar (for herself, Mr. Cornyn, Mr. Lee, Mr. Blumenthal, …
Summary
What This Bill Does
Makes it a federal crime to knowingly distribute intimate visual depictions of individuals without their consent, with penalties of fines and up to 2 years imprisonment, or up to 5 years if for profit or if victim is under 18.
Who Benefits and How
Victims of non-consensual intimate image distribution (revenge porn) gain federal legal recourse. Individuals whose intimate images were shared without consent can pursue federal criminal charges rather than relying on inconsistent state laws.
Who Bears the Burden and How
Those who distribute intimate images without consent face federal criminal liability. Communications services may face increased legal scrutiny. Law enforcement must investigate these cases federally.
Key Provisions
- Creates new federal crime under 18 USC Chapter 88 for non-consensual intimate image distribution
- Sets 2-year prison maximum, increased to 5 years for profit motive or minor victims
- Requires proof of knowing distribution with reckless disregard for consent
- Excludes good faith law enforcement and legal proceedings
Evidence Chain:
This summary is derived from the structured analysis below. See "Detailed Analysis" for per-title beneficiaries/burden bearers with clause-level evidence links.
Primary Purpose
Creates federal criminal penalties for knowingly distributing non-consensual intimate images with reckless disregard for victim consent
Policy Domains
Legislative Strategy
"Create federal criminal deterrent against non-consensual intimate image sharing"
Bill Structure & Actor Mappings
Who is "The Secretary" in each section?
Key Definitions
Terms defined in this bill
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