Watch CBS News

Florida House Approves Reduction Of Sexting Penalties

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami.com) - The Florida House approved a bill Friday that would lower the penalty for minors who are caught "sexting," or sending sexually explicit photos or videos of oneself.

The bill (HB 75) that passed the House will make a first violation a non-criminal office. A second offense will be a misdemeanor, and a third offense will now become a felony.

Under existing law it can result in minors being convicted on child pornography charges and being required to register as a sex offender.

The measure now goes to the Senate, where a similar bill (SB 888) was awaiting a floor vote.

The bill also would allow a minor who gets such an image to report it to police, parents or teachers without being charged with receiving or transmitting child pornography.

(© 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.