AN ACT relating to sexual extortion.
What changed between versions
The definition of sexual extortion was restructured to clearly separate threats to coerce sexual conduct from threats to distribute sexual images, making the law easier to understand and enforce.
New civil liability provisions allow victims to sue perpetrators for actual and punitive damages, court costs, and attorney fees in Circuit Court.
Specific exemptions were added for service providers (internet, telecommunications, cable operators) and disclosures made in the public interest, such as reporting unlawful conduct or lawful law enforcement practices.
The bill now includes specific exemptions for images involving voluntary nudity in public settings and disclosures made in the public interest, narrowing the scope of what constitutes sexual extortion.