LRC’s Capitol Notes: Bill would make
intentional viewing of child porn a felony

From Kentucky Legislative

Research commission

Wednesday, Feb. 15

The intentional viewing of child pornography in Kentucky would become a felony under a bill that cleared the House Judiciary Committee.

House Bill 126, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Sinnette, D-Ashland, would make intentionally viewing a minor in a sexual performance a Class D felony, which carries up to five years in prison. Only those who view child porn as part of a law enforcement investigation would be exempt from the legislation.

Current state law outlaws possession, not viewing, of child pornography, according to committee testimony.

HB 126 now goes to the full House for its consideration.

The General Assembly and its administrative arm the Legislative Research Commission encourage citizen involvement in the workings of their branch of government, and maintain several means for them to do so.

The Legislature’s website – www.lrc.ky.gov – includes comprehensive information about legislators, the legislative process, and the progress of work during the session. Contact numbers, daily meeting schedules, bill summaries and full texts, bill status information, and other information to get you involved are all posted there.

To leave a message for any legislator: 800-372-7181

To check the status of a bill: 866-840-2835

To check meeting schedules: 800-633-9650

For further information, contact scott.payton@lrc.ky.gov

The Kentucky Legislative Research Commission (LRC) was created in 1948 as a nonpartisan, fact-finding service agency. The commission operates as the administrative and research arm of the General Assembly. LRC provides these regular news updates during the annual Kentucky legislative sessions.