Gov. Evers signs bipartisan bill to prohibit misuse of AI-generated images 

Oct. 3. 2025

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Tony Evers on Thursday signed a bipartisan bill updating Wisconsin’s criminal code to address the growing risks posed by artificial intelligence, particularly in the creation and misuse of intimate synthetic media.

The measure, 2025 Wisconsin Act 34, expands existing laws on nonconsensual image sharing and introduces new definitions and penalties related to AI-generated content. It was prompted by increasing concerns over the use of deepfake technology to harass, intimidate, or exploit individuals without their consent.

Under the new law, it is a crime to post, publish, distribute or exhibit a “synthetic intimate representation” of an identifiable person with intent to harass or intimidate. The act also prohibits reproducing private representations of individuals without their consent, and broadens the definition of criminal nudity depictions to include AI-generated likenesses.

The legislation originated as Senate Bill 33 and received bipartisan support in both chambers. Lawmakers cited national trends and local incidents involving deepfake pornography and AI-generated harassment as catalysts for action.

“This bill ensures our laws keep pace with technology and protect Wisconsinites from emerging forms of abuse,” said Sen. Jesse James (R-Altoona), one of the bill’s co-authors. “Synthetic media can be weaponized in deeply personal ways, and our statutes must reflect that reality.”

The measure was backed by victim advocacy groups, legal experts, and digital privacy organizations, who argued that gaps in existing law left victims of AI-generated exploitation without clear recourse.

Wisconsin joins a growing number of states enacting legislation to regulate synthetic media and protect individuals from nonconsensual digital manipulation. The law takes effect the day after publication.

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