An Act relative to transmitting indecent visual depictions by teens and the unlawful distribution of explicit images
This bill creates a mandatory educational diversion program in Massachusetts for minors accused of sharing explicit images online, commonly known as sexting. Instead of facing immediate court processing, eligible youth will be required to complete a curriculum that explains the legal penalties, social consequences, and long-term risks associated with distributing such material. The program is designed to be administered by the Office of the Child Advocate in partnership with state agencies and schools, and it applies to cases involving specific state laws against transmitting indecent visual depictions. Additionally, the legislation encourages schools to teach media literacy skills to help students better understand and evaluate digital content.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action Oct 10, 2023
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor
Sponsors
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