The South Carolina House Judiciary Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss significant legislative measures, including a bill aimed at addressing the unauthorized dissemination of intimate images. The meeting, led by Chairman Travis Moore, included representatives Ryan McCabe and Paul Wickenheimer.

The primary focus of the session was Bill H3058, which seeks to establish criminal penalties for the intentional sharing of intimate images or digitally forged images without the consent of the individuals depicted. This legislation is designed to combat what is commonly referred to as "revenge porn," a growing concern in the digital age. The bill defines intimate images broadly, encompassing both still and video content that reveals intimate body parts or explicit conduct, as well as digitally altered images that misrepresent individuals in such contexts.

Under the proposed law, individuals who knowingly share these images without consent could face severe penalties. First-time offenders may be sentenced to up to five years in prison and fined $5,000, while repeat offenders could face prison terms ranging from one to ten years and fines up to $10,000. The bill also allows for additional charges if multiple images of the same person are involved and includes provisions for law enforcement exceptions during criminal investigations.

Currently, South Carolina lacks specific legislation addressing the unauthorized distribution of intimate images, making this bill a crucial step in providing legal recourse for victims. The committee did not receive any public comments during the meeting, but discussions indicated a strong consensus on the need for such protections, particularly in light of the potential lifelong consequences for victims.

As the committee moves forward, the introduction of amendments to clarify certain aspects of the bill is anticipated. The urgency of this legislation reflects a growing recognition of the need to protect individuals from the harmful effects of digital exploitation.