House passes privacy bill: House Passes Take It Down Act to Combat Nonconsensual Intimate Imagery
The US House of Representatives voted 409-2 on Monday to pass the bipartisan Take It Down Act, a bill aimed at combating the spread of nonconsensual intimate imagery, including sexually explicit deepfakes and “revenge porn.” The bill will now be sent to President Donald Trump’s desk, who has pledged to sign it into law.
Background and Support
The Take It Down Act was first introduced in June 2024 by Republican Senator Ted Cruz and Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar. The bill has garnered significant support, passing the Senate twice and receiving near-unanimous approval from the House Energy and Commerce Committee in April. First Lady Melania Trump hosted a roundtable at the White House in March to rally support for the bill, bringing attention to the issue of nonconsensual intimate imagery.
Key Provisions
The Take It Down Act requires online platforms to remove nonconsensual intimate imagery within 48 hours of a request. The bill also makes the harmful creation and distribution of such images a crime punishable by fines or jail time. This provision aims to hold perpetrators accountable and provide recourse for victims.
Concerns and Criticisms
Despite the bill’s bipartisan support, some digital civil rights groups have expressed concerns about the potential for the bill to be weaponized to remove lawful speech. Others have argued that the bill could imperil encrypted communications. Trump’s assertion that he would use the bill to remove criticism from online platforms has also raised concerns among free speech advocates.
Advocacy and Impact
Omny Miranda Martone, a survivor of deepfake abuse, has been advocating for federal legislation addressing nonconsensual intimate images. Martone emphasized the devastating effects of such abuse on victims’ lives, safety, and mental health. Advocates argue that nonconsensual intimate images are a form of sexual violence, and research has shown that victims experience similar negative mental health symptoms as those who were physically assaulted.
Still on House passes privacy bill
Next Steps
The bill’s passage in the House is a significant step towards protecting victims of nonconsensual intimate imagery. Martone and other advocates are urging President Trump to sign the bill into law immediately, emphasizing that survivors have waited long enough for relief. The bill’s implementation could help mitigate the harm caused by nonconsensual intimate imagery and provide a safer online environment for all users.
Thousands of Patients Seen More Quickly: Latest Health Data
Would you like to Earn Money Online with just your mobile device?
If yes then click on the link below:
https://earnbean.ng/
