Artificial intelligence is reshaping nearly every part of daily life — and unfortunately, those who seek to exploit and harm children are using it, too. AI-generated and digitally manipulated child sexual abuse images have emerged as a fast-growing threat, often blurring the line between what is real and what is fabricated. This new reality leaves families, schools, and mandated reporters facing challenges they could not have imagined even a few years ago.

That’s why the recent passage of Senate Bill 1050 by the Pennsylvania Senate is such an important step forward. The legislation clarifies that AI-generated child sexual abuse material must be reported to ChildLine so that child protection agencies and law enforcement can investigate, bringing Pennsylvania’s Child Protective Services Law in line with today’s technology.

PFSA was honored to testify before the Senate Republican Policy Committee as S.B. 1050 was being developed. We are deeply grateful to the legislators who took the time to meet with us, listen to frontline concerns, and thoughtfully shape this legislation. Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R–Montgomery County), the bill’s sponsor, recognized early that Pennsylvania’s protections must be modernized as AI-generated images continue to surface in schools and communities. Sen. Scott Martin (R–Lancaster County) played a key role in advancing the bill and ensuring that the voices of child-advocacy organizations like PFSA were reflected in its final language.

Their leadership reflects a shared commitment to the safety and dignity of children across our commonwealth.

For decades, PFSA has trained Pennsylvania’s mandated reporters — including educators, medical professionals, and childcare providers — to recognize signs of abuse and respond quickly. As technology changes, our work evolves as well. We are updating our training and resources so that mandated reporters understand how AI-generated images fit within their responsibilities and how to respond when they encounter suspected digital exploitation.

The Senate’s passage of S.B. 1050 is not a finish line, but it is meaningful progress. The bill sits with the House Judiciary Committee, where it is under review, and we remain committed to supporting its thoughtful consideration. Most importantly, we remain committed to helping mandated reporters and families navigate the rapidly shifting digital environment.

As AI transforms our world, one thing must remain constant: our unwavering dedication to keeping Pennsylvania’s children safe. PFSA looks forward to continued collaboration with lawmakers, schools, and communities as we build policies and practices that reflect the challenges of the modern age.

Our children deserve nothing less.

More info:

• LancasterOnline: ‘Artificial intelligence is here’: Lancaster Country Day referenced in Pa. Senate hearing on deepfake legislation
• NorthCentralPA.com: Law enforcement, child advocacy groups push for stronger protections against AI-generated CSAM
• PennWatch: Law Enforcement, Child Safety Advocates Call for Stronger Response to AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Material
• Pennsylvania Capital-Star: Pa. bill closing ‘gap’ for AI-generated child sexual abuse materials closer to becoming law