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Bill

HB 5517

Relating to sexually explicit artificially generated images and videos.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Drew Darby

Texas bill criminalizes creation and distribution of non-consensual sexually explicit deepfake images and videos depicting real people.

Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence
#artificialintelligence(iq7c5) #computers&software(s2425) #crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #internet(s0130) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532) #science&technology(i0751)
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Bill Summary · HB 5517

Legislative bill overview

HB 5517 addresses the creation, distribution, and possession of sexually explicit artificially generated images and videos (deepfake pornography). The bill criminalizes the non-consensual creation and distribution of such synthetic sexual content depicting real people without their consent.

Why is this important

Deepfake pornography can cause serious harm to victims through reputation damage, emotional distress, and privacy violations, yet existing laws may not adequately address AI-generated content. This legislation attempts to close legal gaps and provide recourse for people whose likenesses are used to create fake sexual content without permission.

Potential points of contention

  • Free speech concerns: First Amendment advocates may argue the bill overly restricts expression and faces constitutional challenges, particularly around definitions of what constitutes prohibited content
  • Technical scope and definitions: Determining what qualifies as "sexually explicit" and whether the bill captures all relevant scenarios while avoiding overreach could prove difficult in enforcement
  • Consent and intent requirements: Questions about what level of intent (knowing, reckless, negligent) is required to prosecute, and how consent is established or proven in digital contexts

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

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