JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Senate gave initial approval to a measure that would let victims of child pornography file civil suits against those who possess or download images of them being abused.

The victims could sue for at least $150,000 in damages under a proposal backed by the Missouri attorney general.

The legislation would apply to pornography victims younger than 14 at the time of the crime. They would have up to three years to sue after they turn 18, after the perpetrators are convicted or after police notify them that their images were used in pornography. The legal clock would start ticking with whichever event occurs later.

Sponsoring Sen. Matt Bartle [pictured], R-Lee’s Summit, said it won’t be difficult for abused children to prove they have been injured.