Crimes: disorderly conduct.
The proposed changes imply a significant shift in state laws concerning privacy and disorderly conduct. By broadening the definition of disorderly conduct, AB 1380 will create a new category of crimes related to the distribution of unauthorized images, thereby establishing a state-mandated local program. However, the bill also states that no reimbursement for local agencies or school districts will be required for costs related to this act, as it simply modifies the parameters of existing crimes.
Assembly Bill 1380, introduced by Assembly Member Berman and Principal coauthor Senator Rubio, amends Section 647 of the Penal Code to expand the definition of disorderly conduct. The bill specifically targets the unauthorized distribution of images that are recorded or captured without the consent of the individual depicted, particularly those that could cause serious emotional distress. By including this form of behavior as disorderly conduct, the bill aims to provide additional legal protections for individuals regarding their privacy and the unauthorized use of their images.
Notably, the bill does not necessitate any reimbursement to local government bodies, which could raise concerns among local authorities about the financial implications of enforcing this expanded definition of disorderly conduct. Critics may argue that this lack of financial support could lead to challenges in properly enforcing the new regulations. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the necessity for individuals to provide consent regarding the distribution of their images, which may spark discussions around rights to privacy and the implications for content-sharing on social media platforms.