STATEHOUSE (Jan. 23, 2026) – State Rep. Wendy McNamara’s (R-Evansville) bill to bolster punishments for those who make or distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM) passed out of the House.
McNamara said the bill would create a new crime for distribution of CSAM, separating and raising the penalties and sentencing enhancements for possession of CSAM, distribution of CSAM, and child exploitation.
“We want to ensure our courts have strong tools to hold criminals accountable for crimes committed against Hoosier children,” McNamara said. “By clarifying and strengthening parts of our laws, this bill better protects victims and sends a message that these crimes will not be tolerated in Indiana.”
McNamara said the bill would also create certain restrictions on CSAM in discovery to also apply in civil proceedings. She said this change would help protect victims by ensuring these images are only shown to relevant parties in a legal proceeding.
To learn more about House Bill 1303 and follow the legislative session, visit iga.in.gov.
