The bill H. 3058 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by introducing new sections that address the unauthorized dissemination of intimate images and digitally forged intimate images without effective consent. It defines key terms such as "digitally forged intimate image," "effective consent," "identifiable individual," and "intimate image." The bill establishes that a person who intentionally disseminates such images without consent is committing a felony, with penalties that include fines and imprisonment. The penalties are graduated based on whether it is a first or subsequent offense, with specific provisions that prevent the suspension of minimum sentences or granting of probation for repeat offenders.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that the dissemination of multiple images can be treated as separate offenses and prohibits the duplication of these images for criminal discovery requests. Importantly, it states that the provisions do not apply to images created by law enforcement during lawful investigations. This legislation is designed to enhance protections against the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, reflecting a growing recognition of privacy rights in the digital age. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.
Statutes affected: 12/05/2024: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
04/02/2025: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
04/04/2025: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
04/22/2025: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
04/23/2025: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
04/29/2025: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
05/01/2025: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
05/01/2025-A: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
Latest Version: 16-15-330, 16-15-332
12/06/2024: 16-15-330, 16-15-332