H.R.2373 - Increased Accountability for Nonconsensual Pornography Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2373, the "Increased Accountability for Nonconsensual Pornography Act of 2025," amends the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022, specifically Section 1309, which deals with civil actions related to the disclosure of intimate images. The bill aims to strengthen the legal framework for victims of nonconsensual pornography. It clarifies the definition of affected individuals and increases the potential damages that can be awarded in civil actions.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely make it easier for victims of nonconsensual pornography to pursue civil actions against perpetrators. The increased damage award cap could also deter individuals from engaging in such behavior. This could lead to a reduction in the prevalence of nonconsensual pornography and provide greater recourse for victims.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened legal recourse for victims of nonconsensual pornography.
- Increased potential damage awards, providing greater compensation to victims.
- Clarified definition of affected individuals, ensuring broader protection.
- Potential deterrent effect on individuals considering engaging in nonconsensual pornography.
- Reinforces the importance of privacy and consent in the digital age.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for frivolous lawsuits, although the existing law likely already addresses this.
- Increased burden on the judicial system due to potentially more lawsuits.
- Possible challenges in proving the nonconsensual nature of the image disclosure.
- The increased damage cap could disproportionately affect individuals with limited financial resources.
- May require further clarification and interpretation by the courts to avoid unintended consequences.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with constitutional principles, particularly the right to privacy, although this right is not explicitly enumerated in the Constitution. The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, but this protection does not extend to the nonconsensual distribution of intimate images, especially when it causes harm. The bill aims to balance free speech concerns with the need to protect individuals from exploitation and harm, and appears to be carefully tailored to address a specific type of harmful conduct.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).