Overview

• The Interstate Obscenity Definition Act (IODA) redefines obscenity by removing the 'intent' requirement and broadening criteria for prosecution under federal law.
• Co-sponsored by Rep. Mary Miller, the bill aligns with the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, advocating for nationwide criminalization of pornography.
• The proposed law enables federal prosecution of content deemed obscene across state lines or from foreign sources, expanding enforcement powers.
• Critics warn the bill’s broad language could threaten First Amendment protections and criminalize mainstream content, such as popular TV shows.
• Congress is currently reviewing the legislation, marking Senator Lee’s third attempt to pass such a bill since 2022.