Oregon lawmakers are taking significant steps to address the growing issue of nonconsensual dissemination of intimate images, particularly those generated or altered by artificial intelligence. During a recent Senate Judiciary Committee meeting, House Bill 2,299 was discussed, which aims to expand the state's existing revenge porn laws to include digitally created or manipulated images that are reasonably realistic.

The bill, which passed the House with overwhelming support—56 votes in favor and only three excused—was introduced by Representatives Kevin Mannix and Vanessa Hartman. Mannix emphasized that the current law, enacted in 2015, does not cover AI-generated images, leaving a critical gap that allows perpetrators to evade criminal liability. The proposed legislation seeks to fill this void by defining an image to include those created through digital manipulation, provided there is intent to harass, humiliate, or injure the victim.

Hartman highlighted the urgency of this legislation, noting the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its potential for misuse. She shared personal insights as a parent, expressing concern over the impact of such technology on individuals, particularly young people. The bill aims to protect victims from the harmful effects of deepfake technology, which can create hyper-realistic images that can be used to damage reputations and cause emotional distress.

The committee also heard from Christy George, a victim of this type of harassment, who recounted her traumatic experience of having her daughter's images manipulated and disseminated online. Her testimony underscored the real-world implications of the issue, illustrating the emotional toll it takes on victims and their families.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need for updated legal frameworks to address the challenges posed by modern technology. With bipartisan support and a focus on victim advocacy, House Bill 2,299 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding individuals from the dangers of digital harassment. As the bill moves forward, it signals Oregon's commitment to protecting its residents from the evolving threats of online abuse.