NC S828

Expands first degree sexual exploitation of a minor (G.S. 14-190.16) to include visual representations created, adapted, or modified by any means to give the appearance that a minor is engaged in sexual activity, classified as a Class C felony.

Expands second degree sexual exploitation of a minor (G.S. 14-190.17) to include deepfake or artificially created visual representations depicting minors in sexual activity, classified as a Class E felony, with an exception for minors who create non-distributed nude images of themselves.

Expands third degree sexual exploitation of a minor (G.S. 14-190.17A) to include possession of artificially created visual representations depicting minors in sexual activity, classified as a Class H felony, with an exception for minors possessing nude images of themselves.

Appropriates $1,000,000 in nonrecurring funds from the General Fund to the Department of Public Safety for the 2024-2025 fiscal year to assist law enforcement agencies in enforcing the amended provisions.

Criminal provisions become effective December 1, 2024, and apply to offenses committed on or after that date; appropriations provision becomes effective July 1, 2024.