Bill would outlaw growing problem of ‘revenge porn’
The state Senate has approved a bill outlawing so-called “revenge porn,” which lawmakers say is an increasing problem on the Internet.
People who post identifiable nude pictures of someone else online without the victim’s permission, intending to cause emotional distress or humiliation, could be charged with a misdemeanor under the bill. The penalty is up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Republican Sen. Anthony Cannella of Ceres says his SB255 “punishes those who exploit intimacy.”
The Senate approved the bill 37-1 on Thursday, sending it to the Assembly.
Democratic Sen. Leland Yee of San Francisco was the only no vote. He and the American Civil Liberties Union are concerned the bill could interfere with free speech rights.
SB255 is supported by crime victims and law enforcement organizations.
