Bill > SB0741

This bill creates a new criminal offense in Tennessee that targets technology, software, or digital tools specifically designed to create sexually explicit or offensive content involving minors. The legislation establishes different levels of criminal penalties based on the specific action taken with such technology: possessing these tools is a Class E felony, distributing them is a Class C felony, and producing them is a Class B felony. When determining whether a technology or tool is intended for creating inappropriate minor-related content, courts will consider multiple factors, including the defendant's statements about the tool's use, any existing inappropriate materials in their possession, accompanying instructions or marketing materials, the existence of legitimate community uses for the technology, and expert testimony. The bill defines "patently offensive" content as simulated sexual activity involving minors that is highly inappropriate by community standards. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is part of an effort to protect minors from potential digital exploitation by criminalizing the development and distribution of technologies that could be used to create sexually explicit or offensive content involving underage individuals.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0741&ga=114