Bill > SB5105

This bill strengthens Washington state's laws concerning sexually explicit depictions of minors, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. The bill expands existing legal definitions and criminal provisions to address the creation, distribution, possession, and viewing of fabricated or digitally altered images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, even when the depicted minor is not identifiable. Key provisions include broadening the definition of "fabricated depiction" to include obscene images of minors, creating new reporting requirements for individuals who encounter such images during technological processing, and adding several new criminal offenses related to AI-generated sexually explicit content involving minors. The legislation recognizes the emerging challenges posed by advanced digital technologies in creating and distributing exploitative imagery, and seeks to provide law enforcement with tools to prosecute such offenses. The bill also modifies statute of limitations for various sexual offenses involving minors, extending the time during which prosecutions can be initiated. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that even fabricated or digitally created images can contribute to the sexual exploitation of children by potentially desensitizing viewers and distorting perceptions of healthy relationships.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5105&Year=2025&Initiative=false