The California Senate has voted unanimously to approve a bill (SB 1027) that would prohibit the commercial use of booking photos. The bill would also provide individuals with the ability to sue anyone who publishes or otherwise disseminates booking photos and then requires payment of a fee or other consideration to remove, correct or modify that photo. Those who violate the law are subject to “an amount equal to the greater of $1,000 per violation or the actual damages suffered”, along with costs, attorney’s fees and any other legal or equitable relief.
“Private websites are currently posting booking photos of registered citizens and requiring them to pay up to $500 for removal of those photos,” stated CA RSOL President Janice Bellucci. “This bill would stop that unlawful practice of internet extortion.”
The Senate approved the bill on April 28 on which date the bill was transferred to the California Assembly for its consideration. California RSOL supports this bill and is lobbying on its behalf.
Great work, Janice and everyone involved!
Congratulations! A unanimous vote means that 28% are Republicans, many of them whom would normally be antithetical to our cause. Hopefully this will carry over to other matters of constitutional interest, especially with the upcoming conferences with regard to tier level legislation.
Hmm. I thought extortion was already illegal.
Thank you so much Janice. It’s another positive step. Let’s hope this passes.