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HB 166

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 11 AND TITLE 16 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE MATERIAL.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 13 co-sponsors

Delaware modifies child sexual abuse material statutes to strengthen criminal provisions; overwhelming House passage signals bipartisan child protection priority now awaiting Senate review.

Signed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · HB 166

Legislative bill overview

HB 166 amends Delaware's criminal code (Titles 11 and 16) to modify statutes related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The bill passed the House with overwhelming support (39-0) and is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee. The specific amendments are not detailed in the legislative record provided, so the precise changes to CSAM-related provisions remain unclear from this summary.

Why is this important

CSAM statutes directly affect criminal penalties, prosecution standards, and victim protection frameworks. Amendments to these laws can impact sentencing guidelines, possession thresholds, distribution penalties, and law enforcement investigative authority. Given the bipartisan support and quick committee passage, the changes likely represent a legislative priority regarding child protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency in available materials: The specific amendments are not publicly detailed here, making it difficult to assess whether changes increase penalties, expand prosecutorial tools, or modify existing definitions
  • Sentencing and proportionality concerns: Any changes to criminal penalties for CSAM-related offenses raise questions about whether modifications are proportionate and consistent with constitutional standards
  • Privacy and investigative scope: Amendments could expand law enforcement authority to investigate, search, or seize materials, raising Fourth Amendment and privacy considerations that may generate debate

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

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