Technology

This bill creates new criminal penalties for distributing AI-generated or digitally altered sexually explicit content that falsely depicts real people without their consent. It directly affects individuals who share such content, adding two offenses: a misdemeanor for standard cases and a felony for aggravated situations (like targeting minors, repeat offenses, or causing violence). Key provisions define "false sexual imagery" as AI-altered content a reasonable person would believe depicts a real person, and establish fines up to $25,000 or 2 years in prison for felony violations. The law closes gaps in current D.C. law, which previously only covered authentic non-consensual sexual images or obscene material, not AI-generated content.

The "Disconnect Act of 2025" requires District of Columbia public schools to adopt a policy banning students from using personal wireless devices (such as cell phones, smartwatches, and gaming devices) during the school day. Exceptions include using devices for educational purposes with teacher permission, during health emergencies, or as part of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). The policy must provide secure device storage and ensure violations do not result in classroom removal. It aims to reduce distractions and support learning, citing low academic performance in recent district assessments.