by Pennsylvania Rep. Aaron Bernstine is proposing new legislation that would make publishing mugshots for commercial gain a criminal offense.
The bill targets websites that charge individuals to remove their booking photos, often without updating legal outcomes.
What Happened
Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler, Lawrence) announced plans to introduce a bill aimed at curbing the commercial use of mugshots.
He highlighted growing concerns over websites that profit from publicly available booking photos.
Key Details
Under the proposed legislation:
- Publishing or sharing mugshots for commercial purposes would be classified as a misdemeanor of the second degree.
- Penalties could include up to two years in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.
- Each instance of solicitation for money in exchange for mugshot removal would count as a separate offense.
Bernstine emphasized the emotional and reputational harm caused when mugshots remain online—even when charges are dropped or no conviction follows.
Some sites reportedly charge $30 to $400 to remove these images.
Reactions or Statements
Bernstine stated the legislation is “even more critical” in light of a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling.
The court determined mugshots are part of criminal history records and cannot be released by non-law enforcement agencies, such as prisons.
He argued that third-party sites often obtain mugshots improperly and fail to reflect the legal outcome, leading to long-term personal damage.
Investigation or What’s Next
The bill is expected to be introduced in the upcoming legislative session.
If passed, it would mark a significant change in how mugshot data is handled and monetized in Pennsylvania.
The proposal may face debates regarding freedom of information versus privacy rights and digital exploitation.
FAQs
Q: What is the penalty for commercially publishing mugshots under the proposed bill?
A: Up to two years in jail and/or a $5,000 fine for each offense.
Q: Why is this legislation being introduced now?
A: Following a PA Supreme Court ruling limiting mugshot access, the bill aims to stop misuse by non-law enforcement entities.
Q: Who is behind the bill?
A: Rep. Aaron Bernstine, a Republican representing Butler and Lawrence counties.
Q: What’s the concern with commercial mugshot websites?
A: These sites often charge individuals to remove photos and don’t update cases when charges are dropped or dismissed.
Q: When will the bill be voted on?
A: The bill is still in the planning phase and will be introduced in an upcoming legislative session.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Rep. Aaron Bernstine’s proposed bill aims to protect individuals from digital exploitation by penalizing those who profit from mugshot publishing.
With privacy concerns on the rise and legal standards shifting, the legislation could reshape how arrest records are handled across Pennsylvania.
