Congress Proposes New Fines and Lawsuits for Tech Companies Failing to Stop Child Abuse Online
Stalled
No legislative action in over 90 days.
People convicted of child sexual exploitation offenses face expanded restitution requirements and broadened definitions of offenses that trigger mandatory restitution. The bill also creates new criminal liability for tech providers who knowingly host or facilitate child exploitation, meaning individuals at these companies could face personal criminal exposure. Fines collected from violations are deposited into a fund specifically for victims, adding financial consequences for offenders.
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 106.
The bill is now on the schedule for the full chamber to consider. It's in line for debate and a vote.
Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Grassley with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
The committee approved this bill and is sending it to the full chamber for a vote. This is a significant step — most bills never get this far.
Committee on the Judiciary. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
The committee approved this bill and is sending it to the full chamber for a vote. This is a significant step — most bills never get this far.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Introduced in Senate
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted to advance the STOP CSAM Act, a bill that would allow victims of child pornography to sue companies that host their pictures and videos. Co-sponsored by Senators Josh Hawley and Dick Durbin, the bill expands reporting requirements for tech platforms.
Sens. Josh Hawley and Dick Durbin re-introduced legislation that would hold tech companies accountable for hosting child sex abuse material by targeting the Section 230 statute that shields platforms from liability for user-posted content.
The STOP CSAM Act aims to crack down on child sexual abuse material by allowing minors to sue companies that host such content. Critics from the ACLU and Internet Society warn that making companies liable for encrypted material could force providers to stop offering secure messaging services.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
STOP CSAM Act of 2025
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