The CONSENT Act would create a new federal law allowing people to sue others who send them unsolicited sexually explicit images without their permission. Anyone 18 years or older, including organizations, could be sued in federal court for knowingly or recklessly sending such images through any means affecting interstate or foreign commerce, with guardians able to sue on behalf of minors or incapacitated individuals. Victims could recover up to $500 in statutory damages, actual damages for emotional distress, attorney fees, and court costs, plus obtain court orders stopping the sender from continuing the behavior. The law includes exceptions for third-party internet and communications providers, people sending such images for legitimate medical, educational, or law enforcement purposes, and lawful adult websites. The bill does not change any existing criminal laws and includes privacy protections allowing minor plaintiffs to use their initials instead of full names in court documents.
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