Utah law sets felony penalties for realistic child abuse depictions

Utah law defines apparent and obscene child sexual abuse material and sets felony penalties for specified conduct involving it. The definitions cover specified sexual images of minors, including realistic depictions made with artificial intelligence or other means. Apparent material must show a minor with prepubescent features or who appears younger than 12, and look enough like a real minor that a reasonable viewer would think it depicts one. Knowingly possessing, viewing, or keeping access to apparent material with intent to view is a second-degree felony; producing or distributing it is generally a first-degree felony, but a second-degree felony if the person is under 18. Knowingly producing, distributing, or receiving obscene material, or possessing it intending to distribute it, is a second-degree felony when the conduct does not amount to a specified more serious offense. Some defendants have an affirmative defense if they are no more than two years older than the depicted minor and meet the other requirements, including removing or destroying the material when requested. The law took effect May 6, 2026.

Utah law includes specified offenses involving apparent or obscene material in other criminal and court rules. These rules apply to people with specified convictions involving apparent or obscene child sexual abuse material. The provisions include qualifying convictions in rules on offender registration, repeat-offense sentences, background checks for people seeking direct access to children or vulnerable adults, and eligibility to adopt or seek custody of a child. Registration and court outcomes depend on the specific offense and the requirements of each applicable law. The law took effect May 6, 2026.

Computer repair workers must immediately report covered images they encounter during paid work. This duty covers computer technicians who install, maintain, troubleshoot, upgrade, or repair computer equipment for pay. The duty applies when a worker views an image that is, appears to be, or the worker reasonably believes is covered material. Workers may report to law enforcement, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Cyber Tip Line, or an employer-designated worker under the law's forwarding process. Specified service providers are exempt when they report as required by federal law. The duty applies when a worker views a covered image during paid work.