Bill > S0029

This bill amends South Carolina law to address the creation, distribution, and possession of digitally manipulated images of minors, known as "morphed images." The legislation expands the definitions of sexual exploitation of a minor to include morphed images of identifiable children across three degrees of offense (first, second, and third degree). A "morphed image" is defined as a digitally altered visual representation that makes an identifiable minor appear to be engaging in sexual conduct or nudity. The bill introduces specific provisions for how these offenses will be handled, including criminal penalties ranging from two to twenty years in prison, depending on the degree of the offense. For minors committing first-time offenses involving morphed images, the bill allows for family court intervention and potential behavioral health counseling. Additionally, the legislation modifies the sex offender registry requirements, categorizing certain offenses involving morphed images of minors as Tier I or Tier II offenses, with some exceptions for very young offenders. The bill also establishes that arrest warrants for morphed image offenses can only be issued upon a state grand jury indictment or probable cause determination by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in conjunction with the Attorney General's office.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=29&session=126&summary=B