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Bill

S 1174

An Act protecting minors from the creation of computer-generated child sexual abuse visual materials

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill criminalizes creating, distributing, or possessing AI-generated or digitally altered child sexual abuse imagery without real child victims.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1174

Legislative bill overview

S 1174 would criminalize the creation, distribution, and possession of computer-generated or digitally altered child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in Massachusetts. The bill treats synthetic CSAM—images created or manipulated using AI, deepfakes, or other digital technology without real child victims—as a serious criminal offense with associated penalties.

Why is this important

Synthetic CSAM represents a growing problem as AI and digital manipulation technology become more accessible. While no actual child is directly harmed in creation, law enforcement and child protection advocates argue such material normalizes child sexual abuse, can be used for grooming, and creates a market that incentivizes real CSAM production. This bill addresses a legal gap in state law, as federal prohibitions on synthetic CSAM exist but state-level enforcement mechanisms vary.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Free speech advocates may argue that criminalizing digitally created images (with no real victims) raises constitutional questions about regulating expression, even offensive expression
  • Definitional precision: The bill's language around what constitutes a "minor" in digital form and how "computer-generated" or "altered" materials are identified and proven requires careful technical definition to avoid overly broad application
  • Prosecutorial burden: Law enforcement must develop expertise to detect synthetic versus authentic material and prove digital creation/manipulation, raising questions about investigation costs and investigative authority

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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