The bill, known as "The Audrey Wascome Act," amends various sections of Louisiana law to replace all references to "pornography involving juveniles" with "child sexual abuse materials." This change aims to clarify legal terminology related to offenses involving the exploitation of minors. Key provisions include the redefinition of crimes associated with the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse materials, as well as the establishment of significant penalties for offenders, particularly those who exploit victims under the age of thirteen. The bill also specifies that any acts committed on or after August 1, 2025, will be classified under the new terminology, ensuring that legal implications differ based on the date of the offense.

Additionally, the legislation mandates that interactive computer services report any knowledge of violations related to child sexual abuse materials to the CyberTipline, reinforcing the responsibilities of law enforcement and prosecuting agencies in handling such cases. It updates definitions throughout the law and outlines the criteria for prospective foster or adoptive parents concerning felony convictions related to child abuse or neglect. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen protections for children, enhance the clarity of laws governing offenses against minors, and impose stricter penalties on offenders.

Statutes affected:
HB268 Original: 14:8(A), 14:1(A), 14:1(A)(2), 14:2(B), 14:5(A)(1), 15:537(A), 15:1(F), 15:541(24), 15:1(18), 15:1(C), 15:1352(A)(45), 17:7(A)(1), 46:2(C)(1)
HB268 Engrossed: 14:8(A), 14:1(A), 14:1(A)(2), 14:2(B), 14:5(A)(1), 15:537(A), 15:1(F), 15:541(24), 15:1(18), 15:1(C), 15:1352(A)(45), 17:7(A)(1), 46:2(C)(1)
HB268 Enrolled: 14:8(A), 14:1(A), 14:1(A)(2), 14:2(B), 14:5(A)(1), 15:537(A), 15:1(F), 15:541(24), 15:1(18), 15:1(C), 15:1352(A)(45), 17:7(A)(1), 46:2(C)(1)
HB268 Act 261: 14:8(A), 14:1(A), 14:1(A)(2), 14:2(B), 14:5(A)(1), 15:537(A), 15:1(F), 15:541(24), 15:1(18), 15:1(C), 15:1352(A)(45), 17:7(A)(1), 46:2(C)(1)