Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1083

Introduced
2/26/24  

Caption

In minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children and for the offense of transmission of sexually explicit images by minor.

Impact

The proposed changes within SB 1083 could significantly impact how existing laws apply to cases of child sexual abuse and exploitation. For instance, the bill defines 'artificially generated child sexual abuse material' and establishes legal concepts concerning the use of artificial intelligence in creating such content. By doing so, it provides legal groundwork for prosecuting cases where technology is involved in the creation or distribution of harmful material involving minors, thereby strengthening protections for children in Pennsylvania.

Summary

Senate Bill 1083 aims to amend Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, particularly regarding the offenses of sexual abuse of children and the transmission of sexually explicit images by minors. The bill seeks to clarify definitions related to sexually explicit materials and introduce specific provisions to address the issue of artificially generated child sexual abuse material. This reflects a growing concern over the impact of technology on child safety and the need to protect minors from exploitation in the digital age.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 1083 appears to be supportive among legislators and advocacy groups focused on child protection. Many see the bill as a proactive step to enhance child welfare laws in response to evolving technologies. However, there may also be concerns about the implications of the definitions relating to artificial intelligence and how they could be enforced, as well as potential overreach in restricting digital communication among minors.

Contention

A point of contention around SB 1083 is the balancing act between protecting children and maintaining appropriate freedoms for minors in their digital interactions. Critics might argue that the bill's definitions and provisions could unintentionally criminalize normal behaviors among minors, such as sharing images or communication that they perceive as harmless. The enforcement of these new standards, especially in regards to technology and online behavior, will require careful consideration to avoid overreach while effectively safeguarding children.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1753

In minors, further providing for sexual abuse of children and for transmission of sexually explicit images by minor.

PA HB1063

In sexual offenses, providing for the offense of unlawful dissemination of artificially generated depiction; and, in minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children and for the offense of transmission of sexually explicit images by minor.

PA SB1213

In sexual offenses, further providing for the offense of unlawful dissemination of intimate image; in minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children and for the offense of transmission of sexually explicit images by minor; and making editorial changes to replace references to the term "child pornography" with references to the term "child sexual abuse material."

PA HB2418

In minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children.

PA HB259

In minors, further providing for the offense of sexual abuse of children.

PA SB109

Crimes & Offenses, raises maximum age for offenses involving minors & sexually explicit conduct, authorizes punitive damages for victims of those offenses, directs Board of Education to require policies related to those offenses

PA A5004

Creates separate crime for items depicting sexual exploitation or abuse of children; concerns computer generated or manipulated sexually explicit images.

PA S3823

Creates separate crime for items depicting sexual exploitation or abuse of children; concerns computer generated or manipulated sexually explicit images.

PA SB740

Prohibiting digital manipulation of sexually explicit content to include minors

PA HB1877

Concerning Criminal Offenses Related To Possession Of Sexually Explicit Material That Depicts A Child; And To Include A Computer Generated Image That Is Indistinguishable From The Image Of A Child.

Similar Bills

CA SB348

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CA SB813

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CA AB459

State government: Artificial Intelligence in State Government Services Commission: report.

CA AB2652

State Department of Education: artificial intelligence working group.

CA AB2013

Generative artificial intelligence: training data transparency.

HI HB2176

Relating To Artificial Intelligence.

HI SB2572

Relating To Artificial Intelligence.

CA SB420

Automated decision systems.