Indiana Age Verification Bill Advances Without Criminal Penalties

INDIANAPOLIS—A mandatory age verification bill targeting adult entertainment websites has advanced through an Indiana Senate hearing amending the proposal to remove any potential criminal penalties for violations of the would-be law, like a potential felony. AVN reported on Sen. Mike Bohacek of Michiana Shores introducing Preliminary Draft 3021, which is officially Senate Bill (SB) 17. SB 17 unanimously passed through the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this month and is expected to advance to third reading. The bill originally made it a Class A misdemeanor or a Level 6 felony for repeat offenses. An amendment was issued eliminating the criminal charges. SB 17 is expected to advance.