MT HB514

Amends Montana's privacy in communications law (Section 45-8-213, MCA) to criminalize publishing, distributing, or disclosing intimate images—including AI-generated deepfakes—without consent when done to harass, intimidate, or obtain money

Creates a new offense for possessing and threatening to disclose real or digitally fabricated intimate images to extort money or other valuable consideration from the person depicted

Defines "digitally fabricated" as using technical means such as artificial intelligence to create media that realistically misrepresents an identifiable individual as engaging in conduct they did not engage in

First offense under the new provisions is a misdemeanor; second or subsequent conviction is a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $25,000

Exempts disclosures made in the public interest, law enforcement activities, news reporting, legal proceedings, medical treatment, and historic, artistic, scientific, or educational materials