California Enacts Laws Against AI Child Pornography

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed two significant bills aimed at combating the misuse of artificial intelligence to create harmful sexual imagery of children. The new laws clarify that child pornography is illegal irrespective of whether it is AI-generated, closing a loophole that previously hindered legal action against such offenses. Assemblymember Marc Berman emphasized the importance of these measures, highlighting that AI-generated images often exploit real children's abuse. This initiative is part of a broader effort by California to regulate the AI industry more stringently, which has seen bipartisan support. Additionally, Newsom recently signed laws addressing the creation and distribution of deepfake content, reinforcing protections against digital exploitation. Overall, these actions reflect California's commitment to safeguarding minors in the digital age.