Ohio Moves to Criminalize AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Material in Landmark Safety Bill
Ohio lawmakers have advanced a major child protection bill aimed at restricting the misuse of artificial intelligence. The legislation focuses on AI-generated child sexual abuse material and harmful deepfake content.
The Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 163 with unanimous bipartisan support. Next, the bill moves to the Ohio House for further consideration.
Lawmakers designed the proposal to strengthen existing child exploitation laws. They also want to address risks created by fast-growing artificial intelligence tools.
The bill would criminalise the creation, possession, and distribution of AI-generated child sexual abuse material. It applies the same penalties used in traditional child exploitation cases.
In addition, the legislation introduces stricter digital safeguards. AI systems must include watermarks on generated images. This measure aims to help users identify synthetic content.
Supporters say the bill responds to rising threats in the digital space. Deepfakes and manipulated media now spread quickly across online platforms.
Child protection experts warn about serious risks. AI-generated abuse material can cause emotional harm, harassment, and long-term psychological damage to children.
The bill also targets AI-generated impersonation. It criminalises deepfakes created without consent or with harmful intent.
Senator Terry Johnson, a sponsor of the bill, said the law is necessary to protect children from evolving digital threats. He stressed the urgency of action.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost also backed the legislation. He warned that artificial intelligence must not become a tool for child exploitation.
Child safeguarding advocates say the proposal reflects a shift in modern protection systems. Digital safety is now a core part of child protection.
The bill also addresses online scams linked to AI misuse. Experts say these threats continue to grow as technology advances.
If approved by the House, Ohio will join other states tightening AI regulations. Lawmakers say the goal is clear. Protect children in both physical and digital spaces.
