Bipartisan legislation led on Aug. 1 by U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO) would combat child sexual abuse material (CSAM) generated by or modified with artificial intelligence (AI).
CSAM “is an evil that must be purged from our nation,” Rep. Wagner said. “The rise in AI has made these horrific crimes easier to commit, and it’s time we made sure prosecutors have the necessary tools to fight back against the predators who are exploiting innocent victims.”
The congresswoman sponsored the ENFORCE Act, H.R. 4831, alongside two original cosponsors, including U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) to enhance enforcement with respect to material depicting obscene child sexual abuse or constituting child pornography.
“My ENFORCE Act will ensure AI-generated CSAM is prosecuted and penalized with the same weight as other federal sex crimes,” said Rep. Wagner. “The world is constantly changing with AI, and predators and child abusers are adapting to these new technologies. It is imperative that our laws are properly updated to meet the moment so victims are protected and abusers are held accountable.”
H.R. 4831 is supported by Raven, the National Children’s Alliance, the Child Rescue Coalition, and the National District Attorneys Association.
“The prevalence of computer-generated, AI-enhanced child pornography is astounding and must be combatted effectively,” Rep. Cohen said. “The ENFORCE Act will give prosecutors the tools they need to address this offensive material and to hold those who produce, possess and distribute these heinous materials responsible.”
The measure has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee.