Skip to main content
SENATE 516119th CongressResolution agreed to in Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S8487)

A resolution ensuring that the adoption and foster care system in the United States is child-centered and compassionate and that young people aging out of foster care are provided with adequate support and resources to transition successfully to independent adulthood.

Last Action
12/3/2025

Actions

  • 2025-02-11Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
  • 2025-02-11Introduced in Senate

CRS Summary

As of 2025-02-11 (00)

Stopping Harmful Image Exploitation and Limiting Distribution Act of 2025 or the SHIELD Act of 2023 [sic]

This bill establishes new federal criminal offenses related to the distribution of sexual exploitative content. 

First, the bill makes it a crime to knowingly mail or distribute (or intentionally threaten to mail or distribute) an intimate visual depiction of a recognizable adult engaged in sexual conduct. To constitute a crime, certain elements must be met, including that the distribution must be nonconsensual; the depiction is not a matter of public concern; and the distribution must be intended to cause harm or cause harm. A violator is subject to a fine, a prison term of up to two years, or both; mandatory restitution; and the forfeiture of material involved in the offense, property constituting or derived from the proceeds from the offense, and property used to commit or facilitate the offense.

Second, the bill makes it a crime to knowingly mail or distribute (or intentionally threaten to mail or distribute) a visual depiction of a nude minor with intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, or degrade the minor, or to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person. A violator is subject to a fine, a prison term of up to three years, or both; mandatory restitution; and the forfeiture of material involved in the offense, property constituting or derived from the proceeds from the offense, and property used to commit or facilitate the offense.

Cosponsors (1)

  • John Cornyn (R-TX)

Subjects

  • Civil actions and liability
  • Crimes against children
  • Criminal procedure and sentencing
  • Domestic violence and child abuse
  • Internet, web applications, social media
  • Pornography
  • Sex offenses
  • Telephone and wireless communication
Read on Congress.gov

Sourced from Congress.gov (public domain).

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.