DELAWARE -Two bipartisan bills have been introduced in the Delaware General Assembly aiming to strengthen protections for families by addressing sexual extortion and improving access to digital accounts for parents of deceased minors.
Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R–Georgetown) and Representative Kim Williams (D–Stanton) announced the legislation as part of a coordinated effort to modernize Delaware law in response to growing digital threats and real-world family tragedies.
“By updating our laws to reflect the realities of the digital age and the growing threat of sexual extortion, we’re taking proactive steps to protect our communities,” Senator Pettyjohn said. “These measures send a clear message: Delaware stands with victims and their families, and we will act swiftly to ensure justice and support.”
Senate Bill 142: Tougher Penalties for Sexual Extortion
Modeled after South Carolina’s “Gavin’s Law,” SB 142 would make sexual extortion a Class B felony when the victim is a child or vulnerable adult who suffers serious injury or death. The bill also mandates educational outreach by integrating sexual extortion awareness into Delaware’s Erin's Law curriculum. Schools would be required to educate students, parents, and staff about how to recognize and respond to the threat.
Senate Bill 143: Access to Deceased Minors' Digital Accounts
SB 143, inspired by Ohio’s “Braden’s Law,” focuses on streamlining fiduciary access to digital assets. It requires courts to expedite applications from parents or legal guardians seeking access to the digital accounts of deceased minors, with a goal of resolving such requests within 30 days.
Next Steps:
SB 142 has been assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee
SB 143 will be heard in the Senate Banking, Business, Insurance & Technology Committee
Both bills are expected to receive committee consideration in the coming weeks.
