Bill > HB166

This bill amends multiple sections of Delaware's legal code to replace the term "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" across various statutes related to criminal offenses and child protection. The changes occur in sections dealing with trafficking, sexual offenses, bail conditions, community notification, and risk assessment related to crimes involving children. The bill aims to shift the language away from terminology that might minimize the severity of the offense by using more descriptive and victim-centered language. Specifically, the amendments modify definitions, offense descriptions, and penalty classifications in Title 11 (Criminal Procedure) and Title 16 (Health and Safety) of the Delaware Code. The language changes apply to sections covering topics such as dealing in child sexual abuse material, possession of such material, risk assessment tiers for sex offenders, and child protection levels. By replacing "pornography" with "sexual abuse material," the bill seeks to emphasize the traumatic nature of these crimes and more accurately reflect the harmful impact on child victims.

Justice

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142301