Steven Tyler Act Passes: Hawaii Senate Aproves Celebrity Privacy Protection

Aerosmith frontman and ex "American Idol" judge Steven Tyler proposed an act in Hawaii earlier this month to protect the privacy of celebrities and it has been passed as of yesterday. The so-called "Steven Tyler Act" creates a civil violation if paparazzi take unwanted photographs or videos "of others in their private moments." 23 of Hawaii's 25 Senate members voted in favor of the bill, which will now go to the House for consideration. Tyler asked Senator Kalani English to sponsor this legislation after pictures of the singer and his girlfriend ended up causing family drama.

Steven owns a multimillion-dollar home in Maui. Senator English feels that the proposal could help increase celebrity tourism in the tropical state. Support of the Steven Tyler Act has come from other celebrities including Mick Fleetwood, the Osborne family, and Britney Spears. These stars have argued that intrusive paparazzi make it hard to enjoy simple activities with family and friends while in Hawaii and in general.

All opposing the bill consider it a violation of freedom of the press. Also, the language in the bill is very vague, so it was replaced with the text of an existing California anti-paparazzi statute. Hopefully when the bill is brought up in the House, these issues will be worked out.

Earlier this month, when the Tyler proposed this bill, Mstarz covered the story. Here is an excerpt to better explain how this story has developed:

"The paradise of Hawaii is a magnet for celebrities who just want a peaceful vacation. As a person in the public eye, I know the paparazzi are there and we have to accept that. But when they intrude into our private space, disregard our safety and the safety of others, that crosses a serious line that shouldn't be ignored," said Tyler, UltimateClassicRock reported.

Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac was also present to show his support to the bill. He addressed the invasion of celebrity freedom saying, 'Enough is enough.'

The Bill SB465 will curb the practice of photographers using long-range lenses and audio equipment to capture photos of celebrities in their homes. It will allow legal charges against such people."