In one paragraph
South Carolina's H. 5394 (2023-24) would have amended Code 16-17-470 (eavesdropping, peeping and voyeurism) to increase penalties and to cover knowingly creating or altering images, audio, video or digital files with a generative adversarial network or other digital technology to make a realistic but false depiction of another person without consent, for sexual arousal or gratification, and knowingly selling or distributing such material without consent. It would also have required destruction of evidence and notice to additional victims. Referred to House Judiciary April 10, 2024; it did not pass.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
None: the bill died in committee and never became law. It would have set criminal penalties for individuals who create or distribute AI-generated false sexual depictions without consent; it set no business-specific duties.
Key provisions
- Would have increased penalties for eavesdropping, peeping and voyeurism under Code 16-17-470
- Voyeurism would include knowingly creating or altering an image, audio, video or digital file with a generative adversarial network or other digital technology to make a realistic but false depiction of another person without consent, for sexual arousal or gratification
- Aggravated voyeurism would include knowingly selling or distributing such false material without consent (a felony)
- The law enforcement agency holding seized items would have to ensure they are completely destroyed once no longer needed as evidence
- If an investigation reveals additional people depicted, the agency would have to notify the initial victim and make a reasonable effort to identify and notify additional potential victims within 30 days of discovery
- Introduced and referred to House Judiciary April 10, 2024; no further action; not passed before the 2023-24 session ended (it would have taken effect on the Governor's approval)
Latest legislative action
Apr 10, 2024. Referred to Committee on Judiciary
Sponsors (showing 5 of 7)
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| Brandon Cox R | Sponsor | HD-092 |
| Brandon Guffey R | Sponsor | HD-048 |
| Brian Lawson R | Sponsor | HD-030 |
| David O'Neal R | Sponsor | HD-066 |
| Fawn Pedalino R | Sponsor | HD-064 |
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