Bill > H4455

This bill amends existing laws in Massachusetts to address the issue of teenagers transmitting indecent visual depictions, commonly known as "sexting." The key provisions include: 1. Defining "indecent visual depiction" and establishing penalties for teenagers under 18 who knowingly transmit or distribute such images, including fines or commitment to the Department of Youth Services. 2. Providing an affirmative defense for certain situations, such as when the image only depicts the defendant and was voluntarily provided by the individual in the image. 3. Requiring the Attorney General, in consultation with relevant agencies, to develop an educational diversion program to inform teenagers about the legal consequences and non-legal impacts of transmitting such images. 4. Allowing courts to indefinitely stay arraignment or place the child on pretrial probation, contingent on the child completing the educational diversion program. 5. Amending existing laws to prohibit the photographing, videotaping, or electronic surveillance of a person who is nude or partially nude in a gymnasium, athletic facility, restroom, or changing area without their consent.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H4455