Arizona Lawmakers Move to Make ‘Revenge Porn’ a Felony

PHOENIX — Arizona state legislation unanimously approved yesterday by the House Judiciary Committee would make it a felony to post photos, videos, film or any digital recording of any unwitting person who is naked or engaging in a sexual act, often referred to as revenge porn.

Only the depicted person’s written consent can absolve the poster, the bill states.

Author of the bill, Rep. J.D. Mesnard, explained that he specifically aims to help counter the growing threat of revenge porn, which has left many victims devastated and without legal recourse.

“What we have seen lately, and I’m sure you’ve read some of the stories, many of them tragic, are situations where someone sends a picture of themselves nude to somebody else and that person, maybe it’s during a relationship, and a relationship ends, and that person posts that photo online,” Mesnard said.

Despite Thursday’s unanimous vote, local reports state that House Bill 2515 still faces some “significant questions” that may sideline the measure when it reaches the House floor. A major point of contention is the role of consent in image and video exchanges.

One opponent of the bill, Rep. Eddie Farnsworth, believes that it’s not unusual for individuals to send out naked photos of themselves, and that those that engage in so-called “sexting” and similar behaviors may share responsibility in the unwanted dissemination of their explicit material.

“Once you send it out, I think there’s some difficulty in claiming that you have a right to privacy,” Farnsworth said.“You sent it. It’s on the entire system.”

Arizona legislators approved a new law four years ago to make “sexting” a petty offense, but it only targets minors. The premise is that sexters 18 and younger are simply too immature to understand the implications of their actions. 

Mesnard remains firm in his belief in the bill’s relevance, explaining that despite the complexities of revenge porn (i.e., matters of free speech, consent, etc.), one would be hard-pressed to justify sharing explicit photos shared in trust without unveiling a root of malevolence.

“Unfortunately, as technology changes, people find new ways of hurting people,” Mesnard said.

He added, “That photo now goes out to six or seven billion people. It’s difficult to undo it. And it is often mortifying and embarrassing, as you can imagine.”

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Octavia Red Stars in Final Episode of Bree Mills' 'Escape From Camp Conversion' From Adult Time

Octavia Red stars in the final episode of the Bree Mills-helmed thriller "Escape From Camp Conversion," from Adult Time studio brand Girlcore.

Octokuro Makes Her Vampired Debut

Octokuro has made her Vampired debut alongside Sata Jones in “Vampirella Unleashed.”

Adult Networking Platform SpicyGigs.com Launches

SpicyGigs, a new adult industry networking platform, has officially launched.

Pineapple Support to Host 'Cream Pie Challenge' Fundraiser

Pineapple Support is hosting its Cream Pie Challenge through August to raise funds for mental health services for industry performers.

Kyrgyzstan President Signs Measure Outlawing Internet Porn

President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday signed into law legislation outlawing online adult content in the country.

NC Legislature Overrides Veto of Extreme Anti-Adult Industry Bill

The North Carolina state legislature on Tuesday voted to override Gov. Josh Stein’s veto of a bill imposing regulations that industry observers have warned could push adult websites and platforms to ban most creators and content.

Natalia Starr Stars in Latest From New Sensations

Natalia Starr stars with Danny Mountain in the latest release from New Sensations.

Sabien DeMonia Drops Latest Evil Angel Directorial 'Depravation of Innocence'

Sabien DeMonia has dropped her latest directorial effort for Evil Angel, “Depravation of Innocence.”

Yhivi Makes Her Tushy Raw Debut

Yhivi has made her debut for Vixen Media Group (VMG) studio imprint Tushy Raw, alongside Dan Damage.

Cubbi Thompson Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Cubbi Thompson stars with Small Hands in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "She’s Good with Her Mouth."

Show More