Bill > HB803

This bill expands Maryland's existing revenge porn law to explicitly prohibit the distribution of computer-generated visual representations that are indistinguishable from an actual, identifiable person, particularly those depicting intimate parts or sexual activity. The bill defines "computer-generated visual representation" as images created either from scratch or by modifying existing visual representations without the subject's consent. A person would be guilty of a misdemeanor if they knowingly distribute such an image with the intent to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the depicted person, and either knew the person did not consent to the distribution or showed reckless disregard for consent. The offense is punishable by up to 2 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The bill also includes provisions to protect the privacy of such images in court records, limiting their accessibility to specific individuals like court personnel, prosecutors, law enforcement, the defendant, and the victim. Importantly, the law excludes artistic representations like drawings, cartoons, sculptures, and paintings from its definition of prohibited images. The law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing time for implementation and public awareness.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0803?ys=2025RS