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Protecting Children Online: Private Messages Now Covered in Child Pornography Crimes.

This law strengthens child protection online by clarifying the definition of a federal crime related to seeking or offering child pornography. The change explicitly states that private, one-on-one communications used for these purposes are considered a criminal 'notice or advertisement.' This ensures that individuals using private chats to commit these offenses cannot escape criminal liability, enhancing online safety for children.
Key points
Expanded Scope of Crime: Private messages (chats, DMs) related to child pornography are now explicitly defined as a criminal 'notice or advertisement' under federal law.
Stronger Enforcement: This amendment closes a legal loophole that might have protected offenders using one-on-one communication channels to solicit or distribute illegal content.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_9732
Sponsor: Rep. Lee, Laurel M. [R-FL-15]
Process start date: 2024-09-20
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Protection of Child Victims from Online Predators Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_9732.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-09-20.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Expanded Scope of Crime: Private messages (chats, DMs) related to child pornography are now explicitly defined as a criminal 'notice or advertisement' under federal law.
  • Stronger Enforcement: This amendment closes a legal loophole that might have protected offenders using one-on-one communication channels to solicit or distribute illegal content.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Lee, Laurel M. [R-FL-15].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Security Courts and Law Family