The bill seeks to amend the Revised Code by introducing new regulations focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and the protection of minors. It requires that all AI-generated products feature a distinctive watermark to indicate their origin and explicitly prohibits the creation and distribution of simulated child pornography, targeting both real and artificially generated images of minors. The legislation establishes civil penalties for violations, which will be allocated to the consumer protection enforcement fund. Additionally, it enhances existing laws related to obscenity and the exploitation of minors by defining offenses involving artificially generated depictions and imposing severe penalties for violators.

Moreover, the bill amends section 2913.49 of the Revised Code to refine definitions and regulations concerning identity fraud and the unauthorized use of personal identifying information. It introduces new terms such as "personal identifying information," "replica of a person's persona," and "artificial intelligence," while expanding the scope of prohibited actions, particularly regarding the unauthorized use of replicas. The bill categorizes penalties for identity fraud based on the value of the fraud and the victim's status, with heightened penalties for crimes against vulnerable populations. It also mandates restitution for victims and allows civil actions against offenders, while repealing several existing sections to streamline the legal framework surrounding identity fraud and personal information protection.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1345.51, 2907.321, 2907.322, 2907.323, 2913.49