Permitting civil remedies for the unauthorized disclosure of intimate images

HB 5130 creates a civil legal remedy for West Virginia residents whose intimate images (such as photos showing uncovered genitals, pubic areas, or sexual conduct) are shared without their consent. It allows affected individuals to sue if they suffered harm from an intentional disclosure they did not consent to, the image was private, and they were identifiable. The bill includes exceptions for disclosures to law enforcement, reporting unlawful conduct, or matters of public interest, while protecting plaintiffs' privacy through sealed court filings. Remedies include compensation for economic damages, emotional distress, and other harms caused by the unauthorized sharing.