Halle Berry has succeeded in pushing to pass a law that restricts paparazzi from photographing the children of celebrities in the state of California. Gov. Jerry Brown signed Bill 606 into law earlier this week.
"I started this fight with a great deal of hope and a bit of uncertainty so I cannot express my immense gratitude that Gov. Brown has recognized, and acted to remedy, the plight of children who are tormented because of the identity or prominence of their parents," said Berry, according to the BBC.
The Academy award-winning actress also thanked actress Jennifer Garner and British singer Adele for joining her in her fight.
"I am forever in awe of the support I got within my community from the enormously talented musician Adele to fellow actor Jennifer Garner, who travelled with me to Sacramento to share her children's stories, experience and her desire to give them a better life."
The law, which goes into effect in January, penalizes paps with 10 days to one year in jail, in addition to a $10,000 fine. The bill also allows for parents to bring a civil action against violators to seek damages and legal fees.
"Kids shouldn't be tabloid fodder," said Senator Kevin de Leon, who put forward the bill, adding that the new law "will give children, no matter who their parents are, protection from harassers who go to extremes to turn a buck".
Critics of the law included the National Press Photographers Association and the California Broadcasters Association.
"It is for all of us that I rejoice today and hope that this fight will continue and that the proper enforcement of this law will truly make a positive impact on the daily lives of all children," said Berry.
Back in August, Berry and Garner testified before the Assembly Judiciary Committee about how their children were harassed by paps, reports ABC News.
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