Pennsylvania House Bill 259 redefines child sexual abuse material in state criminal statute

Original title: An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children.

Last action · January 22, 2025: Referred to JUDICIARY, Jan. 22, 2025Sponsors: SCIALABBA and 9 others

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What This Bill Would Do

Pennsylvania House Bill 259 amends the definition of "child sexual abuse material" under of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. The measure takes effect in 60 days.

Why it matters

Changes the legal criteria used by prosecutors and courts to categorize and evaluate visual and printed media involving minors under 18 years of age.

Who It Would Affect

Groups the bill's text would affect if enacted, as described in the record. Being affected is not a position for or against it.

Directly affected

law enforcement agencies

Law enforcement personnel must apply the updated statutory definition when investigating and handling child sexual abuse material cases.

Directly affected

prosecutors

Prosecutors must utilize the revised legal definitions when charging individuals under the sexual abuse of children statute.

Key Facts

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does House Bill 259 change?

It updates the definition of "child sexual abuse material" in Section 6312(g) of of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.

When does this legislation take effect if passed?

The act is scheduled to take effect in 60 days.

What else do you want to know?

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Where This Stands

Currently in committee. The next step in the legislative lifecycle is Floor Vote.

Procedural history

1 action

Jan 22, 2025HouseCommittee
Referred to JUDICIARY, Jan. 22, 2025

Version history

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