The bill seeks to enhance Washington's legal framework against sexually explicit depictions of minors, particularly in response to advancements in artificial intelligence that enable the creation of realistic but fabricated images. It broadens the definition of "fabricated depiction" to encompass any visual or printed material showing a minor in sexually explicit conduct, irrespective of the minor's identifiability. The legislation underscores the potential harm of such depictions, which can desensitize viewers and normalize child sexual exploitation, even when identifiable victims are not involved. Key amendments include redefining terms related to digitization and obscenity, adjusting the age threshold for minors to 18 years, and establishing new penalties for offenses involving minors and sexually explicit conduct.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws concerning the viewing and possession of such material, allowing individuals who intentionally view it online to be charged with first-degree or second-degree felonies based on content severity. It specifies that each internet session constitutes a separate offense and mandates that individuals involved in processing or producing such material report any reasonable suspicions of illegal content to law enforcement, with penalties for non-compliance. The legislation also clarifies that ignorance of a minor's age is not a valid defense, extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting related offenses, and provides immunity for good faith reporters. Overall, the bill aims to bolster protections against the exploitation of minors and enhance accountability for offenders.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.68A.050, 9.68A.053, 9.68A.060, 9.68A.070, 9.68A.075, 9.68A.110
Substitute Bill: 9.68A.050, 9.68A.053, 9.68A.060, 9.68A.070, 9.68A.075, 9.68A.110, 9.68A.040
Engrossed Substitute: 9.68A.050, 9.68A.053, 9.68A.060, 9.68A.070, 9.68A.075, 9.68A.110, 9.68A.040