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A New State Law on Sexting

We all know how big sexting has become among tweens as well as the

consequences associated with it. Many people have varying opinions

about how sexting with minors should be handled and who should be

involved. Effective September 1, 2011, Texas will enforce a new law, Senate

Bill 407, that makes sexting a misdemeanor for minors. Any minor who is

found guilty of sexting or “promoting child pornography” will be

required to participate in an education reform program. According to

this new law, the minor’s guardian can also be required to complete

this program as well. This law will exclude minors who are married or in a “dating

relationship” during the time of the offense. It will also protect

school administrators who have confiscated the explicit material with

the intent of destroying or reporting the content. The law requires

that any sexting crimes be reported to law enforcement within 48 hours. You can find a summary of the new law here or the full text for Senate Bill 407. Give us your feedback, let us know what you think of this new Bill. Will it help or hurt?