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HB 2012

Remedies and Special Proceedings - As enacted, creates a civil action for individuals who are the subject of an intimate image that is intentionally disclosed without the individual's consent under certain circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 28 and Title 39, Chapter 17.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mary Littleton

Tennessee bill creates civil lawsuit rights for people whose intimate images are shared without consent, allowing them to seek damages.

Comp. SB subst.
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Bill Summary · HB 2012

Legislative bill overview

HB 2012 creates a civil cause of action in Tennessee for individuals whose intimate images are intentionally shared without consent. The bill amends Tennessee's civil remedies and family law statutes to establish legal recourse for victims of non-consensual intimate image disclosure, commonly known as "revenge porn."

Why is this important

Non-consensual intimate image sharing causes documented psychological harm and reputational damage to victims, yet many states lack adequate civil remedies. This bill would allow affected Tennesseans to sue perpetrators for damages rather than relying solely on criminal prosecution, which carries higher evidentiary burdens and may not address victims' compensation needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what constitutes an "intimate image" and whether the definition is narrow enough to avoid over-breadth or broad enough to protect victims effectively
  • Consent and context: Disputes about what constitutes "intentional" disclosure and how to handle edge cases (leaked by hackers, screenshots during consensual sharing, etc.)
  • Free speech concerns: First Amendment challenges regarding the balance between protecting privacy and protecting expressive rights, particularly regarding public figures or newsworthy content
  • Damages and liability: Questions about appropriate remedy levels, whether platforms bear liability, and whether anonymity protections for defendants are adequate

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

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