New Law To Protect Celebs' Kids From Paparazzi

Paparazzi and others who harass the children of public figures will face stiffer penalties under new legislation in California.
A bill signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown boosts penalties for actions that include taking photographs and a video of a child without consent and in a harassing manner.

Media organisations, including the California Newspaper Publishers Association, had opposed the move, which increases penalties for harassing children because of their parents' job, on the grounds that it was overly broad and could restrict the legitimate newsgathering activities of reporters and photographers.

However, Mr Brown, who dated rock singer Linda Ronstadt during his first stint as California governor in the 1970s, approved the measure without comment on Tuesday.Justin Bieber has called for new measures

It means those caught breaking the restrictions now face a maximum sentence of one year in jail - up from six months- and a fine of up to $10,000 (£6,252) instead of the current £1,000 (£625) financial penalty.

The bill was given a boost when Hollywood mothers Halle Berry and Jennifer Garner gave it their support at a California legislative hearing in August.