What It Does
Wyoming HB 102 targets the creation and distribution of AI-generated deepfake images that exploit or depict minors in sexually explicit material. The bill extends Wyoming’s existing child exploitation statutes to cover synthetic media produced by generative AI tools. By classifying AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the same footing as traditional CSAM, the law closes a gap that existing federal and state statutes left open when the images depict no real child. HB 102 was assigned Chapter Number 91 on March 8, 2026, and takes effect July 1, 2026.
Who It Applies To
HB 102 applies to any person or entity that creates, distributes, possesses, or promotes AI-generated deepfake images depicting minors in exploitative contexts. This includes operators of generative AI platforms, content hosting services, digital media companies, and individual users. The law applies to conduct occurring within Wyoming or targeting Wyoming residents. Companies that operate content-creation tools accessible to Wyoming users should assess their exposure regardless of where they are headquartered.
Key Provisions
- Criminal liability for AI-generated CSAM: Creating, distributing, or possessing AI-generated sexually explicit images of minors is treated as a criminal offense under Wyoming’s existing child exploitation framework.
- Extends existing statutes: The bill amends current child exploitation laws to explicitly include synthetic and AI-generated media, eliminating the argument that no real child was harmed.
- Platform accountability: Content creation platforms and hosting services may face liability if they knowingly facilitate the creation or distribution of prohibited material.
- No age threshold loophole: The law covers deepfake depictions of any minor, regardless of whether the image is based on a real or fictional child.
- Effective date: July 1, 2026, giving affected parties roughly two months from enactment to ensure compliance.
Compliance Checklist
If you operate a content-creation platform, hosting service, or generative AI tool accessible in Wyoming, before July 1, 2026 you should:
- Audit content moderation systems to detect and block AI-generated CSAM, including synthetic depictions of minors.
- Update terms of service to explicitly prohibit the creation of deepfake images depicting minors in exploitative contexts.
- Implement reporting mechanisms that comply with NCMEC reporting obligations and Wyoming’s new requirements.
- Train moderation teams on the distinction between traditional CSAM and AI-generated synthetic media to ensure consistent enforcement.
How This Compares
Wyoming HB 102 is narrower than comprehensive deepfake laws like California’s AB 602 and AB 730, which cover adult NCII and election deepfakes. HB 102 focuses exclusively on child exploitation material. It is similar in scope to Kansas SB 525, which creates a civil cause of action for deepfakes, but Wyoming’s approach is criminal rather than civil. Among states addressing AI-generated CSAM specifically, Wyoming joins Illinois (720 ILCS 5/11-23.5) in treating synthetic child exploitation material as equivalent to traditional CSAM.
Effective Date Countdown
Compliance deadline: July 1, 2026. As of April 2026, companies operating generative AI tools or content platforms in Wyoming have limited time to implement safeguards. The law takes effect without a phase-in period.
Read the Bill
Author: AI Laws by State. This is not legal advice. For compliance questions specific to your operation, consult an attorney licensed in Wyoming.