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House passes first substitute HB 71 to criminalize nonconsensual distribution of intimate images, with penalties narrowed to misdemeanors on first offense
Summary
After extended floor debate about scope, intent and penalties, the Utah House passed first substitute House Bill 71 (distribution of intimate images) 68–6. Amendments narrowed the statute and made a first conviction a class A misdemeanor and subsequent separate-incident convictions third-degree felonies.
The Utah House on Feb. 13 passed first substitute House Bill 71, a measure that makes the intentional, nonconsensual distribution of intimate images a criminal offense when the distributor knows the depicted person did not consent and when emotional harm results. The bill passed 68–6 and will be transmitted to the Senate.
Representative Polson, sponsor of the bill, told the chamber the measure targets ‘‘intentional and purposeful harming of individuals and families’’ and described cases in which victims suffered job loss, social ostracism and severe emotional distress. ‘‘This is something that destroys lives and destroys families,’’ Polson said in summation, urging lawmakers to address harms that civil remedies do not adequately redress.
Floor debate focused on…
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