The House of Representatives passed the Senate version of the TAKE IT DOWN Act (S.146), moving it to the President’s desk. The bill had earlier passed unanimously in the Senate. Originated as a bipartisan and bicameral effort, it targets the issue of non-consensual distribution of intimate images, including deepfakes, most of which affect women and girls. The act mandates websites to swiftly remove such content.
Representative Maria Salazar praised the move, stating it marked “a historic day” and emphasizing the law’s requirement for platforms to remove compromising images within 48 hours.
Rep. Madeleine Dean highlighted the urgency of addressing the spread of deepfakes and the act’s role in offering victims legal remedies. Rep. Tom Suozzi applauded the First Lady and the Problem Solvers Caucus for helping pass the act, calling it a critical first step. Rep. Henry Cuellar described the act as vital to safeguarding dignity and safety.
Rep. Debbie Dingell, who introduced the act, expressed her gratitude for the House’s passing of the bill. She drew attention to the tool’s use in harassment and intimidation, mainly against women and children.
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick emphasized the need for legal safeguards against abuses arising from technological advances, while Rep. Melissa Bresnahan highlighted the importance of personal security. Rep. Chuck Edwards echoed the sentiment, underscoring protection for minors and rapid technological changes.
Sen. Ted Cruz credited survivors and advocates for the act’s success, stressing the importance of holding predators accountable. Sen. Amy Klobuchar asserted that the act provides necessary protections for victims of unauthorized sharing of intimate images.
The TAKE IT DOWN Act criminalizes the publication of non-consensual intimate images and demands their removal within 48 hours upon receiving notice. It includes provisions to protect lawful speech.
The act’s passage adds to Rep. Salazar’s legislative achievements, with past initiatives addressing various issues, including economic relief, electoral reforms, small business support, mental health, and environmental protection.
Passage of the TAKE IT DOWN Act marks it as a landmark legislative step in combating the misuse of intimate images and digital exploitation. The President, who has endorsed the act, is expected to sign it into law soon, bringing new federal safeguards against abuse in the digital age.
