French lawmakers want to fine catcallers nearly $1,000

(Image credit: Getty Images)

published 21 May 2018

Street harassers beware: Whistles and catcalls could be costly.

Lawmakers in France's National Assembly passed a measure last week that would fine people who harass women up to $885, The Washington Post reports.

The bill, which still needs the approval of the French Senate to officially become law, will require people to pay on the spot if they are caught whistling at women, heckling them, or following them. Anything that "infringes the freedom of movement of women in public spaces and undermines self-esteem and the right to security" could merit a fine. Do it more than once, and street harassment could get really expensive — repeat offenders will be required to pay up to $3,500.

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Summer Meza has worked at The Week since 2018, serving as a staff writer, a news writer and currently the deputy editor. As a proud news generalist, she edits everything from political punditry and science news to personal finance advice and film reviews. Summer has previously written for Newsweek and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, covering national politics, transportation and the cannabis industry.

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