Federal law targeting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and obscene visual depictions of child sexual abuse would be strengthened in several ways. Prosecutors would have clearer authority to charge anyone who produces CSAM that is connected to interstate commerce, closing a definitional gap in current law. The statute of limitations for obscene visual representations of child sexual abuse (18 U.S.C. §1466A) would be removed entirely, meaning charges can be brought at any time. Convictions under §1466A would now also trigger mandatory sex offender registration, and defendants charged under that section would be subject to a presumption of pretrial detention. Evidence rules during prosecution would match the strict custody protections already in place for child pornography cases.
Congressional Summary
Enhancing Necessary Federal Offenses Regarding Child Exploitation Act or the ENFORCE ActThis bill broadens the scope of prohibited conduct and increases criminal penalties for child pornography offenses involving the production or distribution of an adapted or modified depiction of an identifiable minor. The bill also expands federal enforcement of criminal offenses involving the possession, receipt, distribution, or production of obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children.
Legislative Subjects
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Passed Senate
- Action Date
- 2025-12-16
- Date Added
- 2026-06-04
- Source
- Congress.gov →
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