CA Bill Would Make Sending Unwanted Nude Photos A Crime

CALIFORNIA — Sending unwanted nude photos could become a crime in California, under a bill introduced by a Southland legislator.

The "cyber-flashing bill" was introduced in the State Senate by Sen. Ling Ling Chang, who represents parts of Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties, ABC7 reported.

"We know from leaders in the tech space that this is a problem. The research shows it's a problem. I've heard from other women in my community, and it's even happened to me," Chang said in a statement. "It's time to take this issue seriously. We need to send a message that this culture of online harassment is unacceptable. We need to make online experiences safe and free from harassment."

Sending unsolicited lewd photos would be punishable by a fine if the bill became law, Chang said. The Texas State Legislature recently passed a similar law criminalizing unwanted nude images.

Chang introduced the bill, dubbed the Preventing Indecent Content Sharing (PICS) Act, in collaboration with the social networking app Bumble.

The bill will be referred to a committee and considered by the full Senate this spring, Chang's office said.