Senate Bills 9 and 29, both sponsored by Sen. Harold Jones II (D – Augusta), were signed by Gov. Brian Kemp on May 7, 2019.  

“Both of these pieces of legislation will play a part in protecting the citizens of Georgia and making our communities as safe as possible,” said Sen. Jones. “It was a long process to get these bills to the Governor’s desk and it would not have been possible without the efforts of my colleagues in the legislature, as well as countless community advocates across the state who took the time to attend committee meetings and have their voices heard. I would like to thank Governor Kemp for addressing these issues and look forward to bringing additional reforms to our state in the future.”

Senate Bill 9 would create a new crime of “sexual extortion” which would specifically outlaw coercing an individual into sending nude images, videos or any electronic communication of the individual engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Those found guilty on a first offense would be charged with a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon second or subsequent offenses would be charged with a felony with one to five years of imprisonment. The bill also outlines the crime of “improper sexual contact by employee or agent” which would occur when an employee or agent knowingly engages in sexually explicit conduct with an individual under their supervision. Those convicted of this crime in the first degree would be subject to one to 25 years of imprisonment, a fine of $100,000, or both. Those convicted of this crime in the second degree would be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

Senate Bill 29 would add “a sheriff, deputy sheriff, or other agent, servant, or employee of a sheriff’s office” to the list of individuals who qualify for sovereign immunity for motor vehicle claims while operating in their official capacity.