Governor Quinn Signs Sexting Legislation

In an effort to eliminate the recent “sexting” phenomenon by adolescents, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation amending the Juvenile Court Act to prohibit the electronic transfer of indecent visual images by minors. (P.A. 096-1087).

Pursuant to the amendment, the Act now prohibits a minor under the age of 18 from electronically distributing or disseminating any material that depicts another minor nude or engaged in any sexual or lewd conduct. Electronic transfers include transfers via computer or any other electronic communication device. A minor who violates the Act may be found to be in need of court supervision. If a minor is found to be in need of supervision, the minor may be ordered to obtain counseling or other supportive services or ordered to perform community service.