Criminalizes the unauthorized dissemination of sexually explicit images of another person that are created by digital devices or created without the consent of the person depicted.
With the implementation of S0355, violations of the unauthorized dissemination of sexually explicit images will lead to a misdemeanor charge for first-time offenders, carrying potential penalties of up to one year of imprisonment or a fine of up to $1,000. A second or subsequent violation will elevate the offense to a felony, resulting in harsher penalties, including imprisonment for up to three years and fines reaching $3,000. Moreover, the bill includes provisions for those who engage in threats of disclosure for extortion purposes, further reinforcing protections against exploitation regarding intimate imagery.
Bill S0355, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, aims to address the unauthorized dissemination of sexually explicit images created by digital devices. This act amends existing laws to impose stricter penalties on individuals who intentionally share such images without the consent of the person depicted. The bill is a significant move towards enhancing individuals' privacy rights in the digital world, especially considering the increasing prevalence of non-consensual sharing of intimate images, often referred to as 'revenge porn.'
While the bill generally seeks to protect individual privacy, there are some notable exceptions outlined in its provisions. Dissemination of images that were taken in public settings or with voluntary exposure is exempt from the penalties established by this act. Additionally, exceptions for educational, law enforcement, and public interest contexts are included, which may raise questions about how to navigate the balance between protecting privacy and allowing for necessary information dissemination. As the bill moves through the legislative process, discussions regarding the implications of these exceptions may present points of contention.