MD HB1294: Criminal Law - Child Sexual Abuse Material - Artificial Intelligence Software

In one paragraph

Maryland's HB 1294 (2026, third reader text) would have replaced "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" in several statutes and amended Criminal Law section 11-208 so a "computer-generated image" includes images created through the use of artificial intelligence software. Section 11-208 already bars possessing or viewing a computer-generated image indistinguishable from an actual, identifiable child under 16; its existing penalties are up to 5 years and $2,500 (up to 10 years and $10,000 for a repeat offense). It passed the House 133-0, went to Senate Judicial Proceedings, and died when the 2026 session ended.

Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.

What it means for business

None: the bill died and did not become law. It would have made clear that AI-created images count as computer-generated images under the existing possession and viewing offense.

Key provisions

1. 1Would have amended Criminal Law section 11-208 so a computer-generated image includes one created through the use of artificial intelligence software
2. 2Indistinguishable from an actual and identifiable child: an ordinary person would conclude the image depicts an actual, identifiable minor; includes computer-generated images created, adapted or modified to appear so; excludes drawings, cartoons, sculptures and paintings
3. 3Existing offense, unchanged except for the AI definition: knowingly possessing and intentionally retaining, or knowingly or intentionally accessing and intentionally viewing, such a depiction of sadomasochistic abuse, sexual conduct or sexual excitement
4. 4Existing penalties, not changed by the bill: first offense a misdemeanor, up to 5 years, fine up to $2,500, or both; repeat offense a felony, up to 10 years, fine up to $10,000, or both
5. 5In Criminal Law section 11-208.1 (existing provider removal and State Police reporting duties), Criminal Procedure section 2-503 (facial recognition) and Education section 23-506.1 (library policies), the bill only renamed child pornography as child sexual abuse material
6. 6Would have taken effect October 1, 2026; passed the House 133-0 and died in Senate Judicial Proceedings

Latest legislative action

Mar 20, 2026. Hearing 3/26 at 1:00 p.m.; died when the Maryland General Assembly's 2026 session ended April 13, 2026

Sponsors (showing 5 of 18)

Roll call votes