Bill > LD537

This bill creates a comprehensive legal framework to prohibit "doxing" of a minor, which is defined as intentionally disclosing personal identifying information about a person under 18 (or a high school student) when the disclosure could lead to stalking, physical harm, property damage, or reasonable fear for safety. The bill establishes specific definitions for key terms like "personal identifying information," which includes sensitive data such as home addresses, school information, social security numbers, and certain photographs. Under the new law, a minor who has been doxed can bring a civil action against the perpetrator and seek injunctive relief, actual and compensatory damages, and potentially punitive damages if the doxing was motivated by bias or done with malice. The bill provides some notable defenses, such as reporting potentially unlawful conduct to law enforcement or engaging in constitutionally protected speech. Importantly, if a minor prevails in such a civil action, they are entitled to attorney's fees and costs. The legislation also expands existing legal statutes related to civil actions and creates a new chapter in Maine law specifically addressing the protection of minors from harmful personal information disclosure.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=537&snum=132