Calif. governor signs bill to deter paparazzi

[alp227]

Source: AP

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Paparazzi and others who harass the children of public figures will face tougher penalties under legislation that California Gov. Jerry Brown signed Tuesday.

The bill from state Sen. Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, will boost penalties for actions that include taking photos and video of a child without consent and in a harassing manner.

Celebrities such as actresses Halle Berry and Jennifer Garner urged lawmakers to support SB606. Berry testified before several legislative committees that her daughter has been intimidated by aggressive photographers who follow them daily, often shouting as they snap pictures.

The measure also will help protect the children of police officers, judges and others, who might be susceptible to harassment or unwanted attention due to their parents' occupations, de Leon said.

Read more: http://bigstory.ap.org/article/calif-governor-signs-bill-deter-paparazzi

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The bill passed unanimously in the state senate and assembly.

[Nanjing to Seoul]

1. I smell a constitutional challenge of press freedom. Before I get flamed, it might not be

a strong case, but I still see one coming. Whether that argument is accepted is to be determined, but I still see it coming.

[msanthrope]

3. Sure--it will be challenged. But the protection of minors is a compelling state interest, and

I suspect it will be upheld on appeal if narrowly drawn.

[underthematrix]

2. thank Gov. Brown. I am so sick of the newsmedia abusing the

children of celebrities and destroying the lives of these children.