Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Public Safety Committee

HB 1272

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Creating the crime of wrongfully distributing intimate images.

Sponsors: Representatives Buys, Orwall and Pollet.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Creates the crime of wrongfully distributing intimate images.

Hearing Date: 2/13/15

Staff: Cassie Jones (786-7303).

Background:

"Revenge porn" is the phrase commonly used to describe sexually explicit media that is publicly shared without the consent of the pictured individual. "Revenge porn" may be uploaded by ex-partners with an intention to shame or embarrass the individual in the image, or by hackers. Thirteen states have enacted laws which specifically target "revenge porn."

A person commits the crime of Voyeurism if, for the purpose of arousing or gratifying the sexual desire of any person, he or she knowingly, views, photographs, or films:

  1. another person without that person's knowledge and consent while the person being viewed, photographed, or filmed is in a place where he or she would have a reasonable expectation of privacy; or

  2. the intimate areas of another person without that person's knowledge or consent and under circumstances where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, whether in a public or private place.

"Intimate areas" means any portion of a person's body or undergarments that is covered by clothing and intended to be protected from public view. Voyeurism is a class C felony and a sex offense.

A class C felony is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

A gross misdemeanor is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.

A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Summary of Bill:

A person commits the crime of wrongfully distributing intimate images if, he or she:

Wrongfully distributing intimate images is a misdemeanor on the first conviction, a gross misdemeanor on the second conviction, and a class C felony on the third and subsequent conviction. It is also a sex offense.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.