On Monday, President Trump enacted a new law aimed at making the online distribution of unconsented, sexually explicit “deepfake” images and videos illegal. This marks a significant step in technology safety during his second term.
Trump emphasized that this is “the first federal law to tackle the sharing of explicit images posted without the consent of those depicted.”
“With the rise of AI-generated images, many women face harassment through deepfakes and similar content,” he stated. “It’s absolutely wrong. It’s abusive. Some situations are unprecedented. Today, we’re making it illegal.”
The Take It Down Act criminalizes the intentional publication of computer-generated pornographic material that features real individuals.
The law mandates that websites must remove such content within 48 hours of being notified by the affected individuals, while also being required to make “reasonable efforts” to erase any duplicates. The Federal Trade Commission will oversee the enforcement of these regulations.
First Lady Melania Trump, who actively supported the bill, spoke prior to its signing in the Rose Garden.
“This law is a significant step forward in protecting all Americans, particularly the youth, from the misuse of their images and identities,” she remarked.
She further encouraged applause, expressing gratitude for the collaboration on this issue, stating, “Thank you for prioritizing individuals over politics.”
Melania previously participated in a Capitol roundtable in March, aligning her support with her broader initiative focusing on child welfare.
A number of lawmakers were present for the signing ceremony, including Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rep. Elvira Salazar (R-FLA), who played key roles in sponsoring the bill in both the Senate and House. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Rep. Madeline Dean (D-Pa.) were also among those supporting the legislation.
Other members present included Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), along with House Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie (R-KY) and representatives Jae Bell Nolte (R-Calif) and Kevin Hell (R-Okla).
Linda Yaccarino, CEO of social media platform X, was also in attendance, and Trump made note of her presence.
The bill had recently passed the House with a remarkable 409-2 vote, although 22 members opted not to vote. The only dissenting votes came from Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Eric Burlison (R-Mo.).
Sponsored by Senate Commerce Speaker Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), with co-sponsorship from Rep. Elvira Salazar (R-FLA.) and Rep. Madeline Dean (D-Pa.), the bill represents a significant legislative achievement in youth online safety this session, especially after similar efforts fell short last year.
The Take It Down Act garnered backing from technology safety organizations and families concerned about the dangers of social media, particularly regarding young users.
However, some technology advocates have raised concerns regarding potential impacts on free speech, worrying the bill could inadvertently restrict non-offending content. Supporters countered these claims, asserting that the law aligns with First Amendment protections by requiring a strict “rational person” standard to determine whether an image closely resembles an authentic one.
