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Bill > SB902


WI SB902

WI SB902
Creating a civil cause of action for sexual extortion.


summary

Introduced
01/27/2026
In Committee
01/27/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill creates a civil cause of action for victims of sexual extortion, which is also a crime. Under the bill, a victim of sexual extortion, or his or her parent if the victim is a child, or the personal representative of his or her estate if the victim is deceased, may bring a civil cause of action to recover damages for injury, emotional distress, or loss of property. Additionally, the bill provides that the personal representative of a deceased person or the person who would stand to benefit from a wrongful death action may bring an action for wrongful death against a person who engaged in sexual extortion if the sexual extortion was a substantial causal factor in the suicide of the deceased person. Under the bill, the victim or their representative may bring the cause of action regardless of whether there has been a criminal action for the sexual exploitation, and regardless of the outcome of any criminal action for the sexual exploitation. Under the bill, if the victim prevails in the action, a court may award special and general damages, including damages for emotional distress; punitive damages; and costs, including all reasonable attorney fees and other costs of the investigation and litigation which were reasonably incurred. LRB-6057/1 MJW:skw 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 902

AI Summary

This bill establishes a new legal pathway for victims of sexual extortion, which is a crime involving the use of sexual favors or images to coerce someone into giving money or property. Under this bill, individuals who have suffered harm, emotional distress, or property loss due to sexual extortion can sue the perpetrator in civil court to recover damages. This right extends to the victim's parent if the victim is a child, or to the victim's estate if they have passed away. Furthermore, if sexual extortion was a significant cause of a deceased person's suicide, their estate or beneficiaries can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. Importantly, victims can bring these civil actions regardless of whether a criminal case has been filed or what the outcome of any criminal proceedings might be. If a victim wins their civil case, the court can award them compensation for their losses, including emotional distress, punitive damages (meant to punish the wrongdoer), and all reasonable legal costs, such as attorney fees and investigation expenses. The bill also includes provisions to protect the privacy of victims who choose to use initials instead of their full names in court filings.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (19)

Last Action

Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Executive Session (10:00:00 3/3/2026 122 South) (on 03/03/2026)

bill text


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