On Monday, state Sen. April Weaver announced a bill that would add material produced through artificial intelligence or “deepfake” technology to Alabama's existing statute banning child pornography.

The law was inspired by a recent incident in Demopolis, where an ordinary photo of a middle school girl was uploaded to an artificial intelligence website by a male classmate, generating explicit content.

“As artificial intelligence expands and becomes more easily accessible, some people are using it for immoral purposes. We need to ensure that innocent and vulnerable children are protected. We must take all necessary steps to continue,” said Rep. Weaver (R-Briarfield).

“As digital technology continues to advance, the laws that protect Alabamians of all ages from harm must keep pace and adapt.”

“Deepfake” technology uses artificial intelligence to place a recognizable individual in photos, videos, or other material in which that person did not participate or consent to its production.

Related: Demopolis middle school shaken by AI-generated pornography scandal

“Deepfake” material, often associated with celebrities, is often used to attack or depict individuals other than the celebrity. Much of the deepfake material created using AI technology is pornographic in nature and often depicts children under the age of 18.

The state's child pornography laws currently make it illegal for an individual to knowingly distribute, display, possess, or create obscene material involving minors, but specifically for media that is digitally created or manipulated. Not handled.

weaverThe bill would add material created through “digitalization or other electronic processes” to the list of prohibited child pornographic media, and would also ban “deepfake” depictions of children.

RELATED: Rep. Matt Woods: Alabama child protection law combats AI-generated pornography

On Tuesday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed her concerns about AI and the need for regulation during her State of the Union address to a joint session of the Alabama Legislature.

“Ensuring new technology is safe and effective is an important public safety measure in this ever-evolving world,” Governor Ivey said. “Today, that new technology may be artificial intelligence, known as AI. And, folks, I’m not going to stand here and preach as if I know a thing or two about AI. However, Ido knows that while new technologies have benefits, they can also be dangerous if not used responsibly. We are committed to ensuring that AI is used appropriately.”

“This week, I will sign an executive order establishing a task force to better understand artificial intelligence and prepare our state to safely and effectively use this emerging technology in the future,” Ivey said. announced.

Wednesday marks the second day of the 2024 Alabama regular legislative session.

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