Wisconsin’s newest laws deal with AI-generated porn and new, lifelike child sex dolls.
Gov. Tony Evers signed more than two dozen new laws, including bans on child sex dolls and child porn created by artificial intelligence.
“We’re working to address the cycle of violence, prevent crime, and keep our schools, streets, and communities safe across Wisconsin,” Evers said in a statement.
One of the new laws creates the new crime of possession of virtual child pornography. Prosecutors say the law is needed because even AI-generated images feed into child pornography, and often, the pictures or videos are created based on real images.
Another new law bans the sale, possession, manufacture or advertisement of child sex dolls.
“Protecting our kids is one of my highest priorities. As technology increases access and availability to new forms of abuse for pedophiles, we have to adjust our laws. We will always take a stand against those looking to prey upon our children,” Sen. Jesse James, R-Altoona, said after the governor’s action.
The child sex doll ban makes it a felony to have one but adds years to any sentence if the doll is made to look like a specific child.
Rep. Joy Goeben, R-Hobart, said the new law is not something Wisconsin would have needed even just a few years ago.
“Law enforcement across the county is reporting an increase in child sex dolls. The dolls are anatomically correct, life-like versions of children ranging from infants to teens. Dolls include accessories with programmable child voices, warming devices, and cleaning tools. They can resemble photos of real children and can contain software enabling the owner to simulate rape. Frequently, these dolls are seized during investigations into child sexual abuse material,” Goeben said.
