Did you know that over 50% of adults receive unwanted sexually explicit content? That's just a reported number, but still far too high. From even a young age we are told to be flattered, but it is time for accountability. Showing your genitals in public or even in private can lead to citation/arrest, so why should it be allowed in the digital realm? This petition calls for a federal law criminalizing the sending of unsolicited explicit photos (specifically: photos of genitals) to unsuspecting parties. 

Texas has already taken a step forward by passing such a law, which includes up to a $500 fine. It's time for this rare-for-Texas progressive step to become nationwide legislation. While it may not constitute assault, its impact on mental health cannot be underestimated.

Like many women, I have been on the unfortunate receiving end of unwanted/unwarranted explicit photos several times. I cannot think of a single female friend who hasn't experienced it herself --and it starts well before adulthood! And although this disproportionately happens to women, this proposed law is intended to protect all genders. Men, especially younger men, may feel as if they aren't allowed to complain or feel disgust about unsolicited sexually explicit photos; they're "supposed" to feel excitement, pleasure, or even laugh it off, but certainly never feel objectified or degraded. They may feel isolated in their experience because of these stereotypes, but NO ONE should feel violated or disrespected in their own personal space, regardless of gender or age.

We urge lawmakers to take action against this form of digital harassment by creating legislation that protects individuals from receiving unsolicited explicit images. We hope by creating this law we have also created a viable deterrent.

Suggested Tiers of Punishment:

(Possibly at the discretion of each individual state)

•Offense #1: Possible arrest (no jail time) and prosecution. Automatic $500 fine. 

•Offense #2: Repeat #1 with added mandatory counseling. 

•Offense #3: Repeat #2 with added 1 yr probation. 

•Offense #4: Repeat #3 with added possible subjection to sex offender registration.

•Offense #5: Repeat #4, some jail time, and automatic sex offender registration with possibility of eventual removal.   

It may not be perfect, but hopefully a positive step in the right direction. Please sign and share this petition if you agree that it's time for change.