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SD 3678

Non-Consensual Explicit Visual Material Minor Cases and Arraignments Report

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts must report on how courts handle non-consensual intimate imagery cases involving minors to identify prosecution gaps and procedural improvements needed.

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Bill Summary · SD 3678

Legislative bill overview

SD 3678 requires the creation of a report on non-consensual explicit visual material (often called "revenge porn") involving minors, with specific focus on case outcomes and arraignment procedures in Massachusetts. The bill directs state authorities to analyze how the criminal justice system currently handles these cases and identify procedural gaps or inconsistencies.

Why is this important

Non-consensual intimate imagery of minors represents a serious crime that combines child exploitation with privacy violations. Understanding current case handling and arraignment procedures can reveal whether the system is adequately protecting minors, prosecuting offenders consistently, and whether legal frameworks need strengthening to address this growing digital harm.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: What constitutes "explicit visual material" and whether the report should include solicitation, possession, or distribution separately
  • Privacy and data sensitivity: Collecting detailed case information on minors' victimization requires careful handling to avoid re-traumatization and privacy breaches
  • Resource allocation: Conducting a comprehensive statewide report may require significant investigative resources and time commitment from law enforcement and courts
  • Remedial expectations: The bill may create expectations for policy changes or prosecution reforms that depend on legislative follow-up action not guaranteed by the report alone

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

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