AB 2479 Summary

• Expands civil liability for invasion of privacy to include false imprisonment committed with intent to capture visual images, sound recordings, or physical impressions of another person, subjecting violators to treble damages, punitive damages, and civil fines of $5,000 to $50,000.

• Creates misdemeanor crimes for violating vehicle code sections (21701, 21703, 23103) with intent to capture visual images, sound recordings, or other physical impressions of another person for commercial purpose, punishable by up to six months in county jail and fines up to $2,500.

• Establishes enhanced penalties for violations involving minor children, making the offense punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines up to $5,000 when a minor is placed in a situation where their person or health is endangered.

• Provides that civil fines collected under the privacy invasion statute are split equally between the prosecuting agency and a newly created Arts and Entertainment Fund managed by the California Arts Council.

• Exempts law enforcement and government employees from liability when capturing images during investigations supported by articulable suspicion of illegal activity or misconduct.