Minnesota passes the nation’s first ban on ‘nudification’ apps
Minnesota is set to become the first U.S. state to ban consumer access to AI “nudification” apps, which can turn ordinary photos into fake nude or sexually explicit images. The state Senate passed the bill 65 to 0 after the House had already approved it, and it now heads to Gov. Tim Walz.
The bill targets apps, websites and software that allow users to create nonconsensual sexual deepfakes without advanced technical skill. Supporters say these tools have enabled image based sexual abuse, including cases involving minors and women whose social media or personal photos were misused.
Companies that violate the law could face civil penalties of up to $500,000, and victims would be allowed to sue. The law is expected to take effect on August 1, 2026, if signed.
The measure was led by Sen. Erin Maye Quade, who introduced it after hearing from victims of AI generated sexual imagery. While supporters see it as a major step against tech facilitated sexual abuse, some legal experts have warned that laws restricting AI generated content may face free speech challenges.
