This bill updates Massachusetts law to address child exploitation involving new technologies like artificial intelligence. It defines AI-generated images of children, deepfakes, and "child-like sex dolls" as illegal, expanding existing protections to cover digital content. Offenders face increased prison sentences (up to 40 years for repeat offenses) and must pay victim restitution for counseling and legal costs. The law also establishes a task force to monitor technology risks and funds victim support services including counseling and legal aid.
This bill (HD 3605) makes it a crime to create computer-generated images or videos that falsely appear to depict minors in sexually abusive situations, with sexual intent. It specifically targets digital material designed to look authentic, such as AI-generated images. Offenders face penalties including up to 10 years in prison, fines up to $50,000, or both. The law directly affects individuals creating such material, expanding existing protections to cover computer-generated content that could be mistaken for real child sexual abuse material.
This bill imposes a 6.25% sales tax on digital advertising services targeting users in Massachusetts, collected by vendors at the time of sale. It directly affects digital advertisers (vendors) selling to Massachusetts-based audiences, with small vendors earning under $2.5 million annually in such sales exempt. Revenue funds three equal programs: local community TV access (via Dept. of Telecommunications), public health campaigns on safe social media use (via DPH), and AI tools for education (via DESE), after covering 5% in administrative costs. The tax takes effect January 1, 2027, with grants beginning in 2028.
HD 1181 prohibits candidates, campaigns, political committees, and other entities from distributing false election information with intent to deceive voters about election dates, voting requirements, registration deadlines, or endorsements within 90 days of an election. It specifically targets "materially deceptive" communications created using generative AI or synthetic media (like AI-generated videos), but exempts bona fide news coverage that discloses manipulation and satirical content. Individuals whose voice or likeness is used in violations can seek court orders to stop the distribution or claim damages. The bill does not apply to news organizations, broadcasters, or satire, and preserves existing protections for internet platforms under federal law.
By Mr. Fernandes, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 35) of Dylan A. Fernandes and Michael D. Brady for legislation to promote employee physical and mental health and wellbeing by limiting the use of electronic monitoring tools. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
