Bill > S516

This bill, known as the SHIELD Act of 2025, establishes new federal criminal provisions to address the non-consensual distribution of intimate visual depictions. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal to knowingly distribute intimate images of an individual without their consent, where the images were obtained under circumstances where the person had a reasonable expectation of privacy, were not voluntarily exposed in public, and are not a matter of public concern. The bill defines "intimate visual depiction" as a visual image of an adult who is recognizable and either engaging in sexually explicit conduct or showing unclothed genitals, anus, pubic area, or female nipples. For minors, the bill creates additional protections against distributing nude images with intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, or sexually gratify. Violations can result in fines and imprisonment of up to 2-3 years, depending on the specific offense. The law includes exceptions for law enforcement, legal proceedings, reporting unlawful activities, and legitimate medical, scientific, or educational purposes. Importantly, the bill clarifies that consent to the creation of an image does not imply consent to its distribution. The legislation also provides for forfeiture of materials and potential restitution, and establishes extraterritorial jurisdiction if either the defendant or the depicted individual is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/516/all-info