In one paragraph
Tennessee SB 741 (Public Chapter 257) targets generators of child sexual abuse material. It makes it a crime to knowingly possess, distribute or produce technology, software or digital tools designed for the purpose of creating material that includes a minor engaged in sexual activity or simulated sexual activity: a Class E felony for possession, Class C for distribution and Class B for production. Courts weigh the defendant's statements, related material, instructions, advertising, legitimate uses and expert testimony in deciding a tool's purpose. The text does not use the words 'artificial intelligence'; the official caption calls them artificial technology tools. Effective July 1, 2025.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
Developers and distributors of image-generation tools built or marketed to produce child sexual abuse material face felony charges in Tennessee.
Key provisions
- New offense in TCA Title 39, Ch. 17, Part 10: knowingly possessing, distributing or producing technology, software or digital tools designed to create sexual material involving a minor
- Possession is a Class E felony, distribution a Class C felony, production a Class B felony
- Factors for 'designed for the purpose': defendant's statements, possession of such material, instructions, advertising, legitimate uses, expert testimony
- Effective July 1, 2025
Latest legislative action
Apr 24, 2025. Signed by Governor; Public Chapter 257
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