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Bill

HB 599

Internet; create civil liability for distribution of child pornography and obscene matter by commercial entities.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Price Wallace

HB 599 permits civil lawsuits against commercial internet entities that distribute child sexual abuse material or obscene content, creating private liability alongside criminal penalties.

Approved by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 599

Legislative bill overview

HB 599 creates civil liability allowing individuals to sue commercial entities that distribute child pornography or obscene material over the internet. The bill establishes a legal pathway for private parties to seek damages against companies that facilitate such distribution, rather than relying solely on criminal prosecution.

Why is this important

This law expands accountability mechanisms beyond traditional criminal enforcement by enabling victims and their representatives to pursue civil remedies against commercial platforms and services. It addresses a significant gap where companies profiting from illegal content distribution may face limited consequences, potentially incentivizing stronger content moderation practices.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Defining "obscene matter" involves subjective standards that could inadvertently restrict protected speech, particularly around edge cases of artistic or educational content
  • Burden on platforms: Commercial entities may face frivolous lawsuits or excessive litigation costs, potentially affecting smaller internet businesses disproportionately
  • Liability scope uncertainty: The bill's application to hosting providers, payment processors, and other intermediaries versus direct distributors remains legally ambiguous and could create unintended consequences

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

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