Bill > SB0236

This bill creates a new chapter in Indiana law to strengthen enforcement of federal child sex crimes by establishing specific provisions for investigating, prosecuting, and addressing offenses related to sexual exploitation of children. The bill defines key terms such as "child" (under 18 years old) and "child sexually abusive material" (material violating specific federal statutes), and establishes that individuals who commit certain federal offenses like sex trafficking of children, sexual exploitation of children, selling or buying children, and creating or distributing child pornography will commit a Level 1 felony. The attorney general is granted broad investigative and supportive powers, including the ability to investigate complaints, assist victims, cooperate with law enforcement agencies, issue subpoenas, work with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and notify appropriate authorities when reasonable suspicion of child sexual abuse exists. Additionally, the bill allows prosecuting attorneys to deputize the attorney general or deputy attorney general to prosecute these specific offenses, effective July 1, 2025. The legislation aims to provide a comprehensive state-level framework for addressing and combating child sexual exploitation by referencing and enforcing existing federal statutes.

Justice

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/236/details