In one paragraph
Maryland's 2019 child pornography law amends Criminal Law 11-208 so the possession offense covers a computer-generated image that has been created, adapted or modified to appear as an actual and identifiable child under 16 engaged in sexual conduct, sadomasochistic abuse or sexual excitement, meaning an ordinary person would conclude it shows an actual, identifiable minor. Drawings, cartoons, sculptures and paintings are excluded. A first offense is a misdemeanor up to 5 years; later offenses are felonies up to 10 years. It also adds digital reproductions to the definition of matter. Effective October 1, 2019.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
Possessing computer-generated sexual images that look like a real, identifiable child is a crime in Maryland, including AI-made images.
Key provisions
- Criminal Law 11-208(a): 'indistinguishable from an actual and identifiable child' includes computer-generated images created, adapted or modified to appear as such a child
- Excludes drawings, cartoons, sculptures and paintings
- Bans knowingly possessing and intentionally retaining such images of a child under 16 in sexual conduct
- First offense misdemeanor (up to 5 years/$2,500); subsequent offense felony (up to 10 years/$10,000)
- 11-201: 'matter' includes digital reproductions
Latest legislative action
Apr 30, 2019. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 326
Topics and industries
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