Politics & Government
Proposal to Crack Down on 'Revenge Porn' Closer to Becoming Law in Virginia
Bill to make it a crime to maliciously post sexually explicit images of others against their wishes in the Commonwealth awaits governor's signature.
The so-called "revenge porn" legislative proposal has been passed by the Virginia House and Senate and now awaits the governor's signature.
The bill would make it a crime to maliciously post explicit images of others against their wishes. Virginia is one of several sites around the country to take up the measure, introduced by Del. Marcus Simon (Va.-53).
"I am very pleased that the General Assembly has worked in a bipartisan fashion to craft a carefully considered bill that makes it a crime to maliciously post sexually explicit images of another against their wishes in the Commonwealth," Simon said Friday in a statement, regarding the passage of HB 326, which incorporates his HB 49.
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"Given the overwhelming support this bill received in both houses," he said, "I am optimistic that the Governor will soon be signing it into law."
Nicole Coon, a victim of revenge pornography, said: "When I first realized I was a victim of revenge pornography, I was angry and hurt. No legal recourse meant that I was going to continue to be a victim through no fault of my own. The Senate & House's passage of this legislation is a huge weight off my shoulders. Knowing that my voice is being heard and that my story can help others is truly gratifying. I want to thank the officer who provided me the opportunity to be involved with Delegate Simon and his staff. They have all been a blessing and I will continue to be thankful for their help."The full text of the bill can be read here.
The next stop will be a signature by Gov. Terry McAuliffe.
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