Bill > HB10

This bill amends Georgia law to significantly restrict the release and publication of booking photographs (mugshots) taken during an arrest. The key provisions include prohibiting law enforcement agencies from releasing or posting booking photographs to the public before an individual is actually convicted of the offense, with some limited exceptions for news media organizations and law enforcement purposes. The bill establishes detailed requirements for news media organizations requesting booking photographs, including submitting a statement about their intended use and confirming they do not primarily profit from publishing such images. Additionally, the legislation creates a process for individuals to request removal of their booking photographs, with potential civil penalties for entities that fail to comply. Specifically, if a person or entity does not remove a booking photograph within ten calendar days of a written request, the individual can file a civil action, potentially resulting in a $1,000 per day penalty. If the same entity republishes the photograph after removal, they could face a $5,000 per day penalty. The law does not apply to booking photograph publishers unless they charge for removal or primarily operate as a booking photo publishing business, and it includes exceptions for public safety notices or ongoing law enforcement investigations.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69290