Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1811

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to certain publications of intimate visual material by a business; providing civil penalties.

Impact

The bill impacts various business entities, specifically those that publish intimate visual content, requiring them to adhere to strict protocols regarding consent. It empowers individuals by allowing them to request the removal of non-consensually published intimate visual material, with businesses required to take action promptly. The legislation also stipulates civil penalties for violations, enhancing the accountability of businesses in handling intimate visual content, thereby aiming to create a more responsible publishing environment.

Summary

SB1811 introduces new regulations concerning the publication of intimate visual material by businesses. This legislation aims to provide a framework within which businesses must operate, particularly mandating that they obtain consent from individuals depicted in such materials before publication. It highlights the importance of individual rights and ensures that perpetrators of non-consensual publication can be held accountable, thus protecting the privacy of individuals against unauthorized exploitation.

Contention

Some notable points of contention around SB1811 include concerns regarding the implementation of the notice requirements and the potential burden they may impose on businesses. Critics argue that while the bill aims to protect individual rights, it might introduce complexities for various businesses that deal with visual media. Others express worries that the legislation may inadvertently stifle certain forms of expression, leading to over-censorship under the guise of protecting privacy.

Legal implications

The act delineates clear legal consequences for businesses failing to comply with its provisions, allowing both individual claims for damages and state enforcement actions. By establishing civil liability for unauthorized publication of intimate materials, the bill not only reinforces individual rights but also seeks to deter businesses from negligence or malpractice in their publication practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1181

Relating to the publication or distribution of sexual material harmful to minors on an Internet website; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB417

Relating to electronic device filters for certain explicit material; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB1936

Relating to electronic device filters for certain explicit material; creating a criminal offense; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB1896

Relating to civil and criminal liability for the unlawful disclosure or promotion of intimate visual material.

TX SB2021

Relating to requirements for certain Internet websites containing sexual material harmful to minors; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB2105

Relating to the registration of and certain other requirements relating to data brokers; providing a civil penalty and authorizing a fee.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX SB1014

Relating to restrictions on the use and disclosure of certain genetic material and genetic information; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB404

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid leave to employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

TX HB4917

Relating to the regulation of third-party data collection entities; providing a civil penalty and authorizing a fee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.