Attorney General Distributes 'Sexting' Guidelines

On the heels of new "sexting" legislation, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Kilmartin distributed a contract today intended to help parents and children set up guidelines regarding Internet and cell phone usage.

On Tuesday, Gov. Lincoln Chafee signed legislation that states that any youth under the age of 18 who sends sexually explicit messages of themselves can be charged with a "status" offense in Family Court. Children will not be prosecuted under the state's child pornography statutes, which was a possibility under previous law.

Those who possess or forward sexually explicit images of another minor other than themselves can be prosecuted under the state’s child pornography laws, and if convicted, may have to register as a sex offender.

The House bill, sponsored by Rep. Peter Martin of Newport, passed in early June. The Senate passed the legislation in late June.

Information about the new law and tips to prevent sexting are available on the Attorney General’s website. The contract for parents and children is also available on the site, in addition to being attached to this story.