Minnesota has made quite a bold decision. It seems they have passed a bill banning nude apps. In other words, at the state level, they are making it illegal to create apps or websites that generate AI-created nude images using the faces of real individuals.

What’s interesting about this bill is that it not only bans the apps themselves but also places significant responsibility on the platform providers. They are prohibited from allowing users to use nude tools, and even advertising and promotion of such services are banned. In other words, both service providers and users are subject to regulation.

Victims are also well protected. In addition to direct damages, victims can claim up to three times the amount of damages. Furthermore, the state attorney general can impose civil fines of up to $500k for each violation, and these fines are allocated to support victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Currently, the bill is awaiting signature from Governor Tim Walz. Once signed, it will take effect on August 1, and violations occurring after that will be subject to the law. This kind of regulation of nude apps is probably one of the first attempts of its kind in the United States. It’s a news story that shows how the relationship between tech companies and AI regulation is becoming increasingly complex.