DOVER, Del. — Two bipartisan bills sponsored by Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R–Georgetown) cleared the Senate Thursday with unanimous support, advancing legislation that strengthens protections against sexual extortion and ensures grieving families have timely access to their deceased children’s digital accounts.
Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 142 (SB 142) significantly enhances Delaware’s laws regarding sexual extortion. Modeled after South Carolina’s “Gavin’s Law,” the bill upgrades sexual extortion to a Class B felony in cases involving children or vulnerable adults who suffer serious injury or death. It also incorporates sexual extortion awareness into Erin’s Law by requiring Delaware schools to educate students, parents, and staff about the growing risks of digital exploitation.
Senate Bill 143 (SB 143), inspired by Ohio’s “Braden’s Law,” allows parents or legal guardians of deceased minors to more swiftly access their child’s digital assets. The legislation directs courts to prioritize and expedite applications, ensuring families are not left navigating prolonged legal delays during an already devastating time.
“Whether it’s the trauma of sexual extortion or the heartbreak of losing a child, these two bills address some of the most painful and personal challenges a family can face,” said Senator Pettyjohn. “I’m proud to see the Senate come together in unanimous agreement that Delaware must act swiftly and compassionately in these areas.”
Senator Pettyjohn emphasized that SB 142 is particularly urgent given the rise in online exploitation targeting children and teens.
“The digital world is changing fast and predators are adapting with it,” Senator Pettyjohn added. “SB 142 helps ensure our laws evolve just as quickly to protect our kids.”
Both bills now head to the House for consideration.
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