Pennsylvania House Bill HB1585

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/10/25
• Refer: 6/10/25

Caption

In other offenses, providing for prohibition against publishing or disseminating booking photographs for commercial use.

Impact

If passed, HB1585 would enhance Pennsylvania's existing laws around privacy and consumer rights by addressing the often abusive commercial practices surrounding booking photographs, which are commonly used in criminal justice. This law would particularly benefit individuals whose images have been publicized without their consent, shielding them from potential harassment or reputational damage. The bill also aligns with the state’s Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, reinforcing the state’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of its citizens against exploitative practices.

Summary

House Bill 1585 seeks to introduce legal prohibitions against the commercial use of booking photographs in Pennsylvania. Specifically, the bill defines the act of publishing or disseminating such photographs for profit, especially when soliciting payment for their removal or modification, as a second-degree misdemeanor. This legislative measure is intended to protect individuals, primarily those wrongfully implicated or represented, from financial exploitation stemming from the misuse of law enforcement generated images. By making such actions illegal, the bill establishes a legal framework aimed at promoting fairness and consumer protection in relation to booking photographs.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around HB1585 appears to be positive, with various stakeholders recognizing the importance of protecting individual rights in the face of evolving digital practices. Legislators promoting the bill highlight its necessity in ensuring that vulnerable individuals are not further victimized by the commercialization of their booking photographs. There may be opposition from those who argue that the bill could limit certain journalist or media practices, but the overall push seems to favor consumer protection and personal privacy rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1585 may arise regarding the balance between freedom of the press and the enforcement of this bill. Some critics may express concerns about the potential implications for media outlets that rely on public records, including booking photographs, as part of their reporting. The challenge lies in determining the boundaries of free speech and the rights of individuals depicted in booking photographs, making this legislation a focal point for discussions on privacy and commercialization in the digital age.