The bill amends several sections of the West Virginia Code to address issues related to the nonconsensual disclosure of intimate images and the filming of sexually explicit conduct involving minors. It introduces new definitions, including "fabricated intimate image," which refers to images created using artificial intelligence that depict intimate parts of an identifiable individual. The bill establishes criminal offenses for the nonconsensual disclosure of such fabricated images, as well as for the creation and distribution of computer-generated child pornography. It also clarifies the penalties for these offenses, increasing fines and prison terms for repeat offenders and for those involved in the distribution of large quantities of illegal images.

Additionally, the bill creates provisions for mandatory reporting by individuals who encounter images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct on electronic devices, offering an affirmative defense for those who comply with this requirement. It outlines confidentiality measures for restricted materials used in prosecutions and specifies exemptions for certain officials performing their duties. The legislation aims to enhance protections against the exploitation of minors and the misuse of technology in creating and distributing harmful content.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8C-12
Committee Substitute: 61-8C-1, 61-8C-2, 61-8C-3, 61-8C-3a, 61-8C-3b, 61-8C-3c
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 61-8-28a, 61-8C-1, 61-8C-2, 61-8C-3, 61-8C-3a, 61-8C-3b, 61-8C-3c