Westmoreland Review

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is expanding across various sectors, including education and finance. However, concerns about its misuse have prompted legislative action in Pennsylvania. The General Assembly has passed legislation aimed at preventing the creation and distribution of AI-generated images depicting nudity or sexual conduct, particularly those involving minors.

In Lancaster County, authorities are investigating incidents where AI was used to generate nude photos featuring the faces of over 20 female high school students. This case highlighted a gap in existing child pornography laws, which define a child as an actual person. Senate Bill 1213 seeks to address this by explicitly stating that possessing, selling, or disseminating AI-generated child sexual abuse material constitutes an offense.

The bill also extends current laws against sharing explicit images without consent to include those created using AI. It has passed both legislative chambers without opposition and awaits consideration by Governor Josh Shapiro.

Rep. Jill Cooper expressed confidence in Harrisburg's ability to adapt quickly to technological advancements, citing the swift development of Senate Bill 1213 as evidence.

In related news, NVIDIA has launched its AI Tech Community in Pittsburgh with technology centers at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh. These centers will focus on robotics and computational development in health sciences respectively.

Additionally, Rep. Cooper announced a Hard-to-Read License Plate Event on October 26th for residents needing free replacements for illegible plates. She also encouraged nominations for Pennsylvania’s 2025 Trail of the Year and shared cybersecurity tips from Treasurer Stacy Garrity and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.