Mugshots, once a routine aspect of law enforcement, have now become a tool for exploitation and injustice. These images, meant to serve a specific purpose, are being misused by unscrupulous companies for financial gain at the expense of people's reputations and livelihoods. We believe it's time to put an end to this practice and ensure a fair and just approach to the dissemination of booking photos.

Under the current North Carolina law, booking photos are treated as public records, meaning they can be accessed, used, and manipulated by anyone, including private companies with questionable motives. This has led to serious consequences for individuals who have been arrested, regardless of whether they were ultimately convicted of a crime or not. Unaccountable entities are profiting from people's misfortunes and using their mugshots as a means of extortion.

We are proud to support North Carolina Senate Bill 129 and House Bill 446, which take a crucial step towards safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals who have faced the criminal justice system. This bill seeks to regulate the dissemination of booking photos to the media, ensuring that private companies cannot exploit this sensitive information for financial gain.

Together, we can make a difference. Support North Carolina Senate Bill 129 and House Bill 446. Tell our lawmakers to protect the dignity and future of all people in our community.