Kifowit Backs Legislation To Stop Privacy Invasions of 'Revenge Porn'

AURORA, Ill. – In response to the increasing threat of “revenge porn,” when sexual images are distributed without one’s consent, state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, recently took action in the Legislature to close a loophole in state law that overlooked this dangerous sexual violation.

“Individuals may share intimate photos and videos with the idea that they will remain private, and later be subject to all the negative effects of unauthorized sharing,” Kifowit said. “Increasingly this trust is at risk of being violated by those who forward the photos and videos to family and friends - or worse - upload them to the internet for the whole world to see.”

Kifowit wants to send a strong message to anyone who considers committing the crime of “revenge porn,” which would be punishable by up to three years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Senate Bill 1009 adds ‘revenge porn,’ which is intentionally distributing graphic sexual images of another person without their consent, to the list of criminal felonies. As more victims have come forward and shared the harm this crime has caused on their private and professional lives, they will also have the ability to seek redress through civil claims, such as invasion of privacy, defamation, or intentional infliction of emotional distress. Senate Bill 1009 was passed unanimously out of the House on Dec. 2 and has been sent to the Governor for his signature to become law.

“Many victims of revenge porn find themselves unable to face family and friends due to their embarrassment and shame, even leading to severe depression,” Kifowit said. “This legislation should act as a warning to individuals who consider hurting others in this way that their actions will result in severe consequences.”

For more information, please contact Rep. Kifowit’s constituent service office at 630-585-1308, email Stephanie.Kifowit@att.net, or visit www.ILDistrict84.com.