A bill banning “revenge porn” has been approved by lawmakers in Massachusetts and is now with Democratic Gov. Maura Healey for signing. If signed into law, Massachusetts would become the 49th state with legislation against sharing explicit images or videos without consent, leaving South Carolina as the only state without such protections.
The bill aims to criminalize the dissemination of nude or partially nude photos without permission, with penalties of up to two and a half years in prison and a $10,000 fine, which would increase for repeat offenses. This move has been applauded by advocates who say it is long overdue and necessary to protect individuals from the social and emotional harm caused by such actions, especially in the digital age.
The bill would bring Massachusetts in line with other states that already have clear prohibitions on the dissemination of sexually explicit images and videos without the subject’s consent. Advocates stress that “revenge porn” is a form of abuse that has become increasingly common, often inflicted by former romantic partners as a means of coercion or control.
The legislation specifically addresses the issue of consent, stating that even if a person consents to the creation of an explicit image or video, it does not mean they are also agreeing to its distribution without further consent in the future. This is an important distinction that aims to protect individuals from having their privacy violated without their explicit permission.
The use of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology in the creation of revenge porn has raised concerns among lawmakers, prompting them to consider further legislation to address the implications of these emerging technologies. This demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding individuals from new forms of abuse and exploitation.
Governor Healey, who has long supported legislation to ban revenge porn and hold perpetrators accountable, is expected to review the bill carefully. Her background as the state’s former attorney general suggests that she understands the importance of protecting individuals from abusive and harmful behavior, making her likely to support the bill.
In addition to criminalizing revenge porn, the bill also establishes a definition for coercive control to encompass non-physical forms of abuse. This includes behaviors such as isolation, threats of harm, and controlling activities, all of which can restrict a person’s safety and autonomy. By expanding the statute of limitations for domestic violence charges, the bill provides survivors with a longer window to seek justice.
Furthermore, the bill addresses the issue of minors who engage in revenge porn by requiring the state attorney general to develop an educational diversion program. This program aims to educate adolescents about the consequences and life-altering effects of engaging in such behavior, offering a more rehabilitative approach over prosecution.
Overall, the passage of this bill in Massachusetts is a significant milestone for survivors of revenge porn. It not only provides strong protections for individuals but also recognizes the need for educational intervention to prevent future harm. By taking a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to addressing this issue, the state is setting a precedent for other jurisdictions to follow in protecting individuals from the harmful effects of revenge porn.
