New California Laws Combat AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse and Deepfake Pornography

In a bipartisan effort to protect minors from harmful sexual imagery and deepfake pornography, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two new bills into law. These laws expand existing protections against child sexual abuse and address the growing threat of AI-generated deepfake porn, which has had devastating consequences for its victims.

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law two bipartisan bills that strengthen protections against AI-generated child sexual abuse images and deepfake pornography, a move that has been widely lauded by victims' advocates and law enforcement officials.

New California Laws Combat AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse and Deepfake Pornography

Current law in California did not explicitly prohibit the possession or distribution of AI-generated child sexual abuse images if prosecutors could not prove the materials depicted a real person. The new laws close this loophole by classifying such offenses as felonies, effectively criminalizing the creation and distribution of this harmful content.

Victims of deepfake pornography have also faced significant emotional distress and personal harm. Elliston Berry and Francesca Mani, two victims who testified in support of the bill, recounted how fake images of them were circulated online without their consent, leading to harassment and cyberbullying.

New California Laws Combat AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse and Deepfake Pornography

These new laws build upon previous legislation regulating AI-generated "deepfake" election content and requiring the removal of "deceptive content" from social media platforms. Governor Newsom has also supported the deployment of generative AI tools to address societal challenges such as highway congestion and tax guidance, while simultaneously considering new rules against AI discrimination in hiring practices.

The bills passed with bipartisan support in the California legislature, reflecting the growing recognition of the urgent need to address AI-related threats. However, the laws regulating deepfake election content are already facing legal challenges in federal court, demonstrating the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding AI technology.

New California Laws Combat AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse and Deepfake Pornography

In addition to the bills combating child sexual abuse and deepfake pornography, Governor Newsom also signed two other bills aimed at protecting women and teen girls from revenge porn, sexual exploitation, and harassment enabled by AI tools. These bills strengthen existing laws and provide additional resources for victims.

California has established itself as a leader in regulating AI technology. Governor Newsom has touted the state's efforts to balance innovation with responsible use of AI, particularly in addressing the harms caused by deepfake content and child sexual abuse.

New California Laws Combat AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse and Deepfake Pornography

While California's legislation is a significant step forward, experts emphasize the need for collaboration among states and international cooperation to effectively combat the global threats posed by AI-generated harmful content.

The passage of these laws in California serves as a testament to the growing recognition of the dangers posed by AI-generated deepfake pornography and child sexual abuse images. By criminalizing these offenses and providing support for victims, the state is taking a proactive approach to protect vulnerable populations and combat the misuse of AI technology.