STATEHOUSE (Jan. 6, 2026) – State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) recently authored two pieces of legislation aimed at combatting digitally altered inappropriate images.
Haggard authored House Bill 1183 and co-authored House Bill 1182 which both define "digital sexual image" and establish penalties for the possession and distribution of these materials.
"This legislation is crucial in protecting individuals from having their privacy violated by the creation and distribution of harmful digital images," Haggard said. "We must ensure that technology doesn't become a tool for exploitation and those responsible face serious consequences and accountability."
Haggard said that he and his wife were victims last year of an alleged deepfake video.
HB 1183 boosts penalties for distributing intimate images, making it a Level 6 felony instead of a Class A misdemeanor and makes it a misdemeanor to create or possess these images.
HB 1182 defines "digital sexual image" as any digitally created or altered image or video that shows sexual acts or body parts, and sets penalties for possessing or distributing this material.
Both bills were referred to the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee. If they pass committee, they will move to the full House of Representatives for consideration.
To track these bills and others during session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
