Bill > HB514

This bill expands Montana's privacy in communications law to address the non-consensual distribution and threatening of sexually explicit images, including those created using digital fabrication technologies like artificial intelligence. Specifically, the bill criminalizes publishing, distributing, or disclosing real or digitally fabricated images showing a person's intimate body parts or engaged in sexual acts without their consent, particularly when done to extort money or cause harm. The bill introduces a new definition of "digitally fabricated" media as content created using technical means to misrepresent an identifiable individual's actions. The legislation establishes penalties for these offenses, with first-time violations classified as misdemeanors and subsequent offenses potentially becoming felonies, carrying fines up to $25,000 and prison terms up to 5 years. The bill includes some exceptions for images in public settings, disclosures in the public interest, and professional contexts like law enforcement or medical treatment. By expanding the existing privacy law, the bill aims to protect individuals from digital harassment, revenge porn, and extortion attempts involving manipulated or unauthorized sexually explicit imagery.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3972