WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) has introduced a bill aimed at making it illegal to knowingly distribute private intimate images without consent. The legislation, H.R. 1218, was introduced in the 119th Congress and referred for review.
The bill seeks to criminalize the distribution of explicit images when done with reckless disregard for the subject’s lack of consent. While the full text of the bill has not yet been released, its intent aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen privacy protections and combat image-based abuse.
The Government Publishing Office (GPO) is responsible for releasing the official text, though delays may occur due to the volume of legislative measures being processed. The bill adds to a growing push at both state and federal levels to address the spread of nonconsensual intimate imagery, often referred to as “revenge porn.”
If enacted, the legislation would mark a significant step toward stronger legal consequences for those who distribute intimate content without consent.