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Bill

S 7469

Criminalizes the harassment of a child; and establishes a private right of action for harassment of a child

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Samra Brouk and 7 co-sponsors

S 7469 - Criminalizing Harassment of Children OverviewBill Number: S 7469 Title: Criminalizes the harassment of a child; and establishes a private right of action for harassment o

REFERRED TO CODES
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Bill Summary · S 7469

S 7469 - Criminalizing Harassment of Children

Overview

Bill Number: S 7469
Title: Criminalizes the harassment of a child; and establishes a private right of action for harassment of a child
Status: REFERRED TO CODES
Introduced: April 17, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to strengthen legal protections for children against harassment and create new criminal penalties and civil remedies for such behavior. The legislation is intended to address growing concerns about the harmful impacts of harassment, bullying, and other forms of abuse targeting minors, especially through online and digital platforms.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a new criminal offense of "harassment of a child" punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000
  • Defines harassment of a child as knowingly engaging in a course of conduct that seriously alarms, annoys, torments, or terrorizes a child under the age of 18
  • Allows for a private civil cause of action for harassment of a child, enabling victims or their parents/guardians to seek damages and other relief
  • Requires social media companies and online platforms to have clear policies prohibiting harassment of minors and to promptly remove any such content when reported
  • Directs the state attorney general to create an online portal for reporting child harassment incidents

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Children under 18 years old would be the primary beneficiaries, gaining new legal protections against harassment and abuse
  • Parents and guardians of harassed children would have the ability to seek civil remedies and damages
  • Social media companies and online platforms would face new requirements and potential liability for failing to address harassment of minors on their services
  • Perpetrators of child harassment could face criminal charges and penalties

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill has been referred to the Senate Codes Committee for initial consideration. If approved by the committee, it would then proceed to a full vote by the state Senate. Companion legislation would also need to be introduced and passed by the state Assembly before the bill could be signed into law by the governor. The timeline for potential enactment remains uncertain at this stage.

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

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