Proposed Bill Would Outlaw 'Revenge Porn' In Michigan

LANSING (WWJ) - Michigan has joined a growing number of states seeking to outlaw so-called revenge porn.

State Senator Rick Jones has co-sponsored legislation that would make it illegal to post sexually graphic pictures or video of someone without their written permission.

Jones told WWJ's Sandra McNeil he's heard from two constituents who's teenage daughters suffered shame and humiliation when their vindictive exes posted nude photos of them online.

"Typically, this happens to young lovers. Sometimes there's alcohol involved and poor decisions are made," Jones said. "However, we must never allow this abuse to continue of the victims and have this sort of harassment and abuse to continue on the Internet."

Those constituents' daughters were forced to leave their high schools due to bullying following the incidents.

"This also happens to college students; it happens to married couples. Whenever they separate, sometimes revenge gets into the picture," Jones added. "I have seen pets harmed, I've seen sexually graphic pictures posted seeking to get revenge."

Under the proposed legislation, those who post the racy pics without permission could be fined up to $500. Three other states have passed similar laws outlawing revenge porn.

But what about those who say the victims shouldn't have allowed the photos to be taken in the first place?

Said Jones, "I would ask your listeners, what would they think if this was their daughter or son who made a poor decision as a young lover, then had this posted on the Internet?"