House Bill No. 806, also known as "The Audrey Wascome Act," seeks to amend Louisiana laws by changing all references from "pornography involving juveniles" to "child sexual abuse materials." This update applies to various sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, including R.S. 14:73.8, 81.1, and 89.1, and introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding the penalties for the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse materials. The bill emphasizes the seriousness of these offenses and establishes specific penalties, including significant prison time and fines for individuals convicted of unauthorized access to such materials.
Additionally, the bill outlines that any acts committed on or after August 1, 2025, will be classified under the new terminology, ensuring consistency in the legal framework addressing crimes against children. It also expands the definition of "sex offense" to include deferred adjudications and attempts related to child sexual abuse materials. Furthermore, the bill mandates that interactive computer services report any knowledge of violations to the Cyber Tip Line, thereby enhancing protections against child exploitation and strengthening the legal framework surrounding offenses against minors.
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)