UPDATE – SEPTEMBER 2025: Ohio Senate Bill 217 was introduced to regulate AI-generated content. The bill required watermarks on AI outputs, criminalized simulated child pornography, and prohibited identity fraud using AI-created replicas. Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee in February 2024, the bill was never scheduled for a hearing. It is now considered “Introduced – Dead” as of February 28, 2024.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
Ohio Proposes New Regulations on AI
As federal efforts to regulate artificial intelligence continue under President Joe Biden’s executive order, individual states are moving ahead with their own proposals. In Ohio, Senators Louis Blessing and Terry Johnson introduced Senate Bill 217, and was proposed by Dave Yost, the state’s Attorney General.
This bill included several key provisions designed to limit harmful or deceptive uses of AI. One major feature would require visible watermarks on all AI-generated products. Removing those watermarks to hide an AI origin would be prohibited. Violators could face civil lawsuits or $10,000 fines imposed by the Attorney General.
The bill would also ban AI-generated images depicting minors in sexual situations. Websites, social platforms, and service providers would be required to remove such content within 24 hours of notice. Failure to do so could result in civil penalties.
Affirmative Defenses and Law Enforcement Use
SB 217 addressed growing concerns about AI-driven identity fraud. The bill would ban the use of speech synthesis or manipulated images to impersonate someone without consent. That includes uses intended to harm reputations, make financial decisions, depict nudity, or support illegal activity.
However, it included affirmative defenses. Law enforcement and attorneys could use AI-generated replicas during investigations, with proper consent.
Penalties would increase based on the amount of money or services obtained through fraud. Vulnerable victims—including minors, seniors, military members, and people with disabilities—would receive extra protection. For example, defrauding an elderly victim could result in a fine of up to $50,000. Victims of identity fraud would also be allowed to file civil lawsuits.
Therefore, the bill aims to limit realistic AI content that deceives people, harms reputations, or enables crimes. It tries to balance free speech with protecting vulnerable groups and individuals from exploitation. Stiff penalties deter criminal use of AI. Required disclosures aim to increase transparency around AI-generated content.
However, at the time of introduction, the bill had not moved beyond committee.
Need Help?
Also, if you’re unsure how laws like SB 217 may affect your business or organization, BABL AI can help. In conclusion, our team of Audit Experts is ready to offer guidance and help you prepare for AI regulation and compliance.