In one paragraph
Idaho's H 575 (2024) created the crime of disclosing explicit synthetic media in Idaho Code 18-6606. Synthetic media is an image or video created or altered with technical means, such as artificial intelligence, to realistically show an identifiable person doing something they did not do; explicit synthetic media shows sexual conduct or intimate parts. Knowingly disclosing it without consent when it would cause substantial emotional distress, disclosing it to harass or degrade, or threatening to disclose it to extort money or images is a misdemeanor, and a felony (up to 10 years, $25,000) for a repeat offense within five years. Effective July 1, 2024.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
Making and sharing AI deepfake nudes of real people to harass or extort them is a crime in Idaho; platforms are shielded unless they knowingly help.
Key provisions
- 18-6606(4)(g): 'synthetic media' is any image or video created or altered using technical means, such as artificial intelligence, to realistically misrepresent an identifiable individual as engaging in conduct they did not engage in (drawings, cartoons and paintings excluded)
- 18-6606(1): knowingly disclosing explicit synthetic media knowing the person did not consent and disclosure would cause substantial emotional distress, disclosing it with intent to annoy, harass, humiliate or degrade, or possessing it and threatening disclosure to obtain money or other valuable consideration
- Misdemeanor; felony punishable by up to 10 years, a $25,000 fine, or both for a person with a prior conviction within five years
- Exceptions for criminal investigations, reporting unlawful conduct, matters of public interest (not merely because a public figure is shown), research or education, and civil proceedings
- Interactive computer, information and telecommunications services are not liable for others' content unless they intentionally aid or abet
- Emergency clause: in full force and effect on and after July 1, 2024 (section later amended by 2026 H 727)
Latest legislative action
Mar 19, 2024. Signed by Governor on March 19, 2024; Session Law Chapter 105
Sponsors
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| Bruce Skaug R | Sponsor | HD-010B |
| Kevin Cook R | Sponsor | SD-032 |
| State Affairs Committee | Sponsor |
Roll call votes
S Senate Third Reading Mar 13, 2024
35 yea0 nayPassed
H House Third Reading Feb 27, 2024
66 yea0 nay4 otherPassed
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error