The bill CS/HB 245 seeks to modernize Florida's legal terminology regarding child exploitation by replacing "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" across various statutes. This change aims to more accurately reflect the nature of the offenses and highlight the victimization of children. The bill introduces a new section, 847.0015, which clarifies that this terminology update does not alter existing definitions or elements of related offenses, and it ensures that prior judicial interpretations of child pornography will apply to the new term. Additionally, the bill amends multiple sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the legal framework surrounding the protection of children from sexual exploitation, including provisions for criminal history checks, judicial proceedings, and penalties for offenses involving child sexual abuse material.

Moreover, the legislation establishes civil remedies for victims whose images have been used in the production of child sexual abuse material, allowing them to seek damages regardless of their age. It also clarifies that ignorance of the victim or the abuse depicted is not a valid defense in civil actions. The bill mandates law enforcement agencies to submit victim-related contact information to prosecutors and requires prosecuting agencies to maintain a tracking database for better oversight. Additionally, it increases penalties for the transmission of child sexual abuse material and provides immunity from civil liability for individuals reporting suspected cases. Overall, CS/HB 245 represents a comprehensive effort to strengthen protections for victims and improve the legal framework surrounding child sexual abuse material in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 245 Filed: 39.0138, 92.561, 435.07, 456.074, 836.13, 836.14, 847.001, 847.002, 847.0139, 903.011, 948.06, 960.197
H 245 c1: 39.0138, 92.561, 435.07, 456.074, 836.13, 836.14, 847.001, 847.002, 847.0139, 903.011, 948.06, 960.197
H 245 e1: 39.0138, 92.56, 92.561, 435.07, 456.074, 836.13, 836.14, 847.001, 847.002, 847.0139, 903.011, 948.06, 960.197
H 245 er: 39.0138, 92.56, 92.561, 435.07, 456.074, 836.13, 836.14, 847.001, 847.002, 847.0139, 903.011, 948.06, 960.197