Bill · S. 1671· Senate(119-S-1671)
Interstate Obscenity Definition Act
- Introduced
- 5/8/2025
- Last activity
- 5/8/2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
- Sponsored by
- Mike Lee
- Cosponsors
- None
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
This bill, known as the "Interstate Obscenity Definition Act," aims to redefine "obscenity" within the Communications Act of 1934. It introduces a specific three-part test to define what constitutes obscene visual depictions, such as pictures, films, or graphic files. This definition includes content that appeals to prurient interests, depicts sexual acts or lewd exhibitions with specific intent, and lacks serious value. Additionally, the bill makes technical adjustments to existing communications law. Finally, it modifies the language regarding obscene or harassing telephone calls.
Yes
Does this put more rules on large technology companies?+3
The bill establishes a specific legal definition for obscenity that regulates visual depictions in digital and broadcast communications.
The opposite
Does this protect the individual right to speak freely?-4
The bill narrows the legal standard for what constitutes obscene speech and removes intent requirements for certain telephone communications.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
-
Clearer Definition of Obscenity: By establishing specific criteria—such as appealing to prurient interests or lacking serious value—the bill provides a formal definition for what constitutes obscene visual depictions under Section 2 of the Act.
-
Standardized Terms: The bill clarifies the meaning of "sexual act" and "sexual contact" by linking them to existing definitions in title 18 of the United States Code, as noted in Section 2(a)(1)(A).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Changes to Harassment Standards: Under Section 2(b), the bill strikes the phrase ", with intent to abuse, threaten, or harass another person" from Section 223(a)(1)(A) of the Communications Act of 1934 regarding obscene or harassing telephone calls.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Governance And Ideology
- Improves Freedom Of Speech-4
- Education And Technology
- Increases Big Tech Regulation+3
- 5/8/2025
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
- Introduced in Senate
One bill Congress.gov lists as related to this one — companions in the other chamber, earlier versions, and bills this one absorbed or was folded into.