Bill > SB539

This bill removes the existing legal exemptions for schools, public libraries, and museums from criminal liability when distributing or displaying obscene matter to minors. Currently, these institutions were protected from prosecution under certain circumstances, such as when a parent accompanied the minor. The bill eliminates these specific exemptions, which means these entities could now potentially face criminal charges if they distribute or display obscene material to minors. The bill retains other existing exemptions, such as those for medical professionals, law enforcement officers, individuals who did not reasonably know the age of the recipient, telecommunications services, and those who take reasonable measures to prevent minors' access to obscene content. By removing the protections for schools, libraries, and museums, the bill aims to create stricter standards for how these institutions handle potentially inappropriate material in the presence of minors, potentially making them more legally vulnerable to prosecution under obscenity laws.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=539&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill