The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is opposing a proposed Pennsylvania law that defines punishments for teens who "sext," or send nude or explicit photos with cell phones.

Felony child porn charges have recently been filed against several teens caught sexting in different cases all over the US. If convicted, the teenagers could be listed as sex offenders for the rest of their lives. The Pennsylvania bill, H.B. 2189, aims to change that by making sexting a misdemeanor, similar to a crime like shoplifting. But according to the ACLU, even a misdemeanor conviction has serious lifetime consequences in terms of young people’s ability to apply to college, apply for financial aid, get a job, or enlist in the military.

In response, Rep. Seth Grove (R - 196th Dist.), the bill's chief sponsor, says there must be consequences for sexting.

The Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association supports the bill, arguing that making sexting a misdemeanor is the best compromise.

Source: ACLU Criticizes State Sexting Bill, Fox43.com, February 5, 2010

Tags: Pennsylvania, sexting, legislation