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Bill

A 3997

Excludes certain actions or omissions from qualifying as unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image when such actions are in connection with the reporting of or investigation into unlawful conduct

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Bores and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 3997 protects whistleblowers and investigators by allowing them to share intimate images when reporting or investigating unlawful conduct without legal penalties.

REFERRED TO CODES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 3997

Summary of Bill A 3997

Bill Number: A 3997
Title: Excludes certain actions or omissions from qualifying as unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image when such actions are in connection with the reporting of or investigation into unlawful conduct
Status: Referred to Codes
Introduced: January 30, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 3997 aims to clarify the legal boundaries surrounding the dissemination or publication of intimate images in specific contexts. The primary intent is to ensure that individuals who report or investigate unlawful conduct are not penalized for sharing intimate images when such actions are directly related to their reporting or investigative efforts.

Key Provisions

  • Exclusion from Unlawful Dissemination: The bill specifies that certain actions or omissions will not qualify as unlawful dissemination or publication of intimate images if they are conducted in connection with:

    • Reporting unlawful conduct to law enforcement or relevant authorities.
    • Investigating unlawful conduct, which may include gathering evidence or information pertinent to a case.

  • Protection for Whistleblowers and Investigators: By providing this exclusion, the bill seeks to protect whistleblowers and investigators from potential legal repercussions that could arise from sharing intimate images as part of their efforts to expose or investigate illegal activities.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Whistleblowers: Individuals who report illegal activities may feel more secure in sharing information without fear of legal consequences related to intimate images.
  • Law Enforcement and Investigators: Those involved in the investigation of unlawful conduct may benefit from clearer guidelines on what constitutes lawful sharing of intimate images in the context of their work.
  • Victims of Unlawful Conduct: The bill may indirectly benefit victims by encouraging more reporting of unlawful activities, as individuals may feel less hesitant to come forward.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: The bill was introduced on January 30, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: A companion bill, S 3174, has been introduced, indicating a parallel legislative effort in the Senate to address similar issues.

Conclusion

Bill A 3997 seeks to provide legal clarity and protections for individuals involved in the reporting and investigation of unlawful conduct, particularly concerning the sensitive issue of intimate images. By excluding certain actions from being classified as unlawful dissemination, the bill aims to foster a safer environment for whistleblowers and investigators, ultimately promoting accountability and justice.

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

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