SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ first sexting law would require teens who send a naked picture to their boyfriend or girlfriend to stand before a judge for what they’ve done, but would keep them out of jail.
A plan that would make sexting a civil violation rather than a crime has cleared the Illinois. Right now teens who send other teens naked or risque pictures can be prosecuted under child pornography laws. The proposed law would only cover texted images by any under 18.
Peoria Republican David Leitch says the plan is a good start, even though the penalties for sexting would be little more than a slap on the wrist.
Rockford Democrat Chuck Jefferson says a trip before a judge, but not to jail may be best.
The sexting ban from the House is one of two plans being forwarded at the Capitol. They both are similar. Lawmakers have worked for the past couple of years to try and ban sexting say they are confident that they will have a new law to send to the governor this summer.
