Oregon Legislature Passes Ban on AI-Generated Intimate Images

Salem, Oregon- The Oregon Legislature has unanimously passed a bill to criminalize the dissemination of realistic, AI-generated pornographic images intended to harass victims, closing a loophole in the state’s existing revenge pornography laws.

This week, the State Senate followed the House in approving HB 2299, which includes digital forgeries, or “deepfakes,” in Oregon’s criminal statutes. Current law does not cover realistic, digitally created or altered images, even if used nonconsensually to harm or harass.

In passing HB 2299, lawmakers aim to give law enforcement and prosecutors new tools to address the growing problem of deepfake intimate images. Research shows that one in eight 13- to 20-year-olds knows someone who has been targeted and negatively impacted by AI-generated intimate content.

“As a mom of two girls, the idea that someone could use AI to create fake, explicit images of a child—or anyone—and face no consequences is horrifying,” said Rep. Annessa Hartman (D-Gladstone), one of the bill’s chief sponsors. “This bill fixes that. It ensures our laws reflect the reality of what victims are facing today and gives them a real path to justice.”

The legislation was shaped by citizen engagement. Collaboration began when a parent in Forest Grove contacted Rep. Susan McLain’s office about the harmful use of deepfakes in schools.

“I was moved to find a solution after hearing from my constituent about the toxic and bullying environment these images are creating in our schools,” said Rep. Susan McLain (D-Forest Grove), another chief sponsor. “This parent took the initiative to ask for help on a very real problem, and in doing so, they inspired action to stop this issue from growing unchecked.”

The bill gained momentum when another individual came forward to share their story.

“I am proud of my constituent, Kristi George, for coming forward and advocating for this very important reform,” said Rep. Kevin L. Mannix (R-Salem), the primary chief sponsor of the bill. “This is an example of how we can bring about real changes when our constituents come forward, as Kristi George did. She has been the real heroine in advocating for this issue.”

With the approval of both chambers, HB 2299 now goes to the governor’s desk for signature.