Denver, CO – April 26, 2025 — Colorado is taking a bold step into the AI regulation arena with a newly proposed bill aimed at banning the use of exploitative AI-generated content, especially deepfakes and non-consensual synthetic media. If passed, the state would become one of the first in the U.S. to implement specific legal protections against the misuse of artificial intelligence in content creation.
The bill, titled “The Digital Integrity and Protection Act”, was introduced this week in the Colorado General Assembly. It targets the unauthorized creation and distribution of AI-generated content that impersonates real individuals, particularly in cases of deepfake pornography, misleading political media, and fake endorsements.
A Response to Growing AI Threats
Lawmakers say the move is a response to the alarming rise of AI tools that can create hyper-realistic videos, audio, and images with little effort or oversight.
“People have the right to control their own image and voice,” said State Senator Maria Lopez, a sponsor of the bill. “We’re seeing AI used to humiliate, manipulate, and deceive. This legislation is about putting guardrails on that technology before more harm is done.”
Key Provisions of the Bill
If enacted, the legislation would:
- Make it illegal to create or distribute AI-generated media that falsely portrays someone in a sexual or defamatory context without their consent.
- Require platforms hosting AI-generated content to label it clearly as synthetic.
- Allow victims to sue for damages and demand removal of non-consensual AI-generated content.
- Impose criminal penalties for those who knowingly create or share harmful deepfakes.
The law would also apply to AI-generated political disinformation, an issue that has gained attention ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Tech Industry Reaction
Tech companies and digital rights groups have responded with a mix of concern and cautious support.
While many agree that abusive deepfakes should be curbed, some warn that overly broad laws might stifle innovation or infringe on free expression.
“We support efforts to prevent harm, but any regulation must be narrowly tailored,” said Jennifer Hall, policy director at the nonprofit Center for Responsible AI. “We don’t want to discourage the positive use of generative tools.”
Major platforms like Meta, TikTok, and YouTube have recently updated their own community guidelines to address AI-generated content, but critics argue that self-regulation has proven inadequate.
Public Support and National Implications
A recent poll by the University of Colorado Boulder found that 76% of state residents support stronger AI regulations, especially when it comes to protecting minors and preventing digital impersonation.
Legal experts say Colorado’s bill could serve as a model for national legislation, especially as Congress struggles to keep pace with the fast-evolving AI landscape.
Looking Ahead
The bill is expected to move to committee hearings in early May, with bipartisan support shaping up in both chambers. If passed, enforcement would begin as early as January 2026.
As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, Colorado’s proactive approach sends a clear message: innovation must not come at the cost of personal dignity and trust.