Bill
Bill > HB4842
summary
Introduced
01/27/2026
01/27/2026
In Committee
02/16/2026
02/16/2026
Crossed Over
02/24/2026
02/24/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
A BILL to amend and reenact §55-20-3 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to civil remedies for the unauthorized disclosure of intimate images; clarifying that the article applies to sexual extortion; clarifying that liability is joint and several; and creating civil penalties.
AI Summary
This bill amends West Virginia law to strengthen civil remedies for the unauthorized disclosure of intimate images, which are defined as images of a person's private parts or images where the person is engaged in sexual conduct. The bill clarifies that these provisions also apply to situations involving sexual extortion, where someone threatens to release intimate images unless certain demands are met. It also establishes that if multiple individuals are found liable for such violations, they will be jointly and severally liable, meaning each liable party can be held responsible for the full amount of damages, regardless of their individual degree of fault. This aims to provide a more comprehensive legal recourse for victims of these harmful disclosures.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (6)
James Akers (R)*,
Dana Ferrell (R),
Bill Flanigan (R),
Joe Funkhouser (R),
Laura Kimble (R),
Andy Shamblin (R),
Last Action
Communicated to Senate (on 02/24/2026)
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