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H 1784

An Act relative to the enticement of children online

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kim Ferguson and 5 co-sponsors

H 1784 - An Act relative to the enticement of children online OverviewBill Number: H 1784 Title: An Act relative to the enticement of children online Status: Hearing scheduled fo

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1784

H 1784 - An Act relative to the enticement of children online

Overview

Bill Number: H 1784
Title: An Act relative to the enticement of children online
Status: Hearing scheduled for 06/10/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to strengthen laws and enforcement against the online enticement of children. The legislation is motivated by growing concerns over the use of the internet and social media to lure and exploit minors. The primary goal is to provide additional legal tools and penalties to protect children from predatory behavior and hold offenders more accountable.

Key Provisions

  • Expands the definition of "enticement of a child" to include online interactions and communications
  • Increases the maximum prison sentence for enticement of a child from 5 years to 10 years
  • Requires mandatory minimum sentences of 2 years for first-time offenders and 5 years for repeat offenders
  • Allows for the seizure and forfeiture of any electronic devices or online accounts used in the commission of the crime
  • Mandates sex offender registration for individuals convicted of online enticement of a child
  • Directs the state police to establish a specialized task force to investigate internet-based crimes against children

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Children and minors will benefit from enhanced legal protections against online predators and exploitation
  • Law enforcement will have expanded investigative tools and resources to combat internet-based crimes against children
  • Convicted offenders will face significantly harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill has been referred to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary and is currently scheduled for a public hearing on June 10, 2025. If passed by the committee, the bill will then proceed to a vote in the full state legislature. Given the bipartisan support for measures to protect children online, the bill is expected to advance through the legislative process, though the timeline for final passage remains uncertain.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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