U.S. Representative Ed Royce

Today U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA-40) voted in support of legislation that would impose civil and criminal penalties for those secretly photographing or videotaping a person in compromising positions, a practice known as "video voyeurism." The Video Voyeurism Prevention Act [S. 1301] passed the Senate in July and now heads to the President for his consideration.

"Video voyeurism is a grave invasion of privacy. For the victim, it’s embarrassing and degrading to be unknowingly photographed. This type of raid on personal privacy is a new form of stalking," said Royce.

Many states, including California, have passed laws to target video voyeurism to protect those in private areas, but there are fewer protections for those who may be photographed in compromising positions in public places. The legislation creates a crime of video voyeurism on federal property, such as national parks and public buildings.

"We have seen video voyeurism cases increase, especially with the rising popularity of camera cell phones," said Royce. "Secretly taping people has also been compounded by the instantaneous distribution capability of the Internet, as pictures and files can be easily transmitted to millions of people. As technology changes and becomes more and more advanced, so must our laws," said Royce.

This legislation is also intended to serve as a model for states that either have not enacted, or wish to strengthen, their own laws. Violators of the federal statute would be subject to a fine of not more than $100,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

"Unsuspecting adults, as well as high school students and children have been targeted in school locker rooms, department store dressing rooms, public bathrooms and even in their homes. This bill will hopefully protect unsuspecting people and crack down on this type of privacy invasion," said Royce.