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Bill

A 123

Limits the admissibility of evidence of a defendant's creative or artistic expression against such defendant in a criminal proceeding

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Khaleel Anderson and 38 co-sponsors

Bill A 123 protects defendants by limiting the use of their artistic works as evidence in criminal trials, ensuring fair treatment and safeguarding artistic expression.

ORDERED TO THIRD READING CAL.5
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Bill Summary · A 123

Summary of Bill A 123

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 123
  • Title: Limits the admissibility of evidence of a defendant's creative or artistic expression against such defendant in a criminal proceeding
  • Status: Substituted by S 464
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 123 aims to protect defendants in criminal proceedings from having their creative or artistic expressions used as evidence against them. The intent is to ensure that artistic works, such as music, literature, and visual arts, are not unfairly interpreted or misrepresented in a legal context, which could prejudice a jury or judge against the defendant.

Key Provisions

  • Admissibility Limitation: The bill seeks to limit the circumstances under which a defendant's creative or artistic expressions can be introduced as evidence in criminal trials. This includes works that may be interpreted in various ways and could potentially bias the court's perception of the defendant.
  • Protection of Artistic Expression: By establishing clearer guidelines, the bill aims to safeguard artistic freedom and expression, ensuring that individuals are not criminalized for their creative outputs.

Affected Parties

  • Defendants in Criminal Proceedings: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals facing criminal charges whose artistic works might otherwise be used against them in court.
  • Artists and Creatives: The bill serves to protect the broader community of artists, ensuring that their works are not misconstrued in legal settings, thereby encouraging freedom of expression.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 08, 2025: Bill A 123 was introduced and referred to the Codes Committee.
  • February 25, 2025: The bill was reported out of committee.
  • February 27, 2025: It advanced to the third reading (Calendar 24).
  • March 03, 2025: The bill was substituted by S 464, a companion bill that likely incorporates similar provisions.

Related Bills

  • A 8681 (prior-session): A previous version of legislation addressing similar issues.
  • A 127 (prior-session): Another related bill from a prior session that may have influenced the current legislation.
  • S 464 (companion): The substituted bill that continues the legislative intent of A 123.

Conclusion

Bill A 123 represents a significant step towards protecting artistic expression in the context of criminal law. By limiting the admissibility of creative works as evidence, the legislation seeks to uphold the integrity of artistic freedom while ensuring fair treatment for defendants in the judicial system.

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

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