Texas Senate considers bills to combat AI-generated exploitation and cyberbullying in schools

In a pivotal meeting of the Texas Senate Committee on Education on April 8, 2025, lawmakers addressed urgent issues surrounding the protection of students from the rising threat of artificial intelligence-generated explicit material. The committee discussed Senate Bill 747, which aims to establish clear policies for school districts to combat cyberbullying involving AI-generated content, following alarming incidents reported by students and parents.

Senator Paxton presented the bill, highlighting the need for schools to adopt specific policies that address the production and distribution of explicit images created through AI technology. This legislation responds to troubling cases, such as a 14-year-old girl whose image was manipulated and shared widely, leaving her feeling unsafe and unsupported by her school. The bill seeks to classify such actions as cyberbullying, allowing for disciplinary measures against offenders.

The testimony of Eliston Berry, a victim of this form of exploitation, underscored the emotional and psychological toll on students. Berry recounted her experience of having AI-generated explicit images circulated among her peers, emphasizing the lack of adequate support from school authorities and the long-lasting impact on her life. Her story resonated with committee members, prompting discussions about the responsibilities of schools and the need for swift action to protect students.

In addition to addressing the immediate concerns of cyberbullying, the bill mandates the development of educational programs to equip school districts with the tools necessary to handle these incidents effectively. This proactive approach aims to prevent future occurrences and ensure that students feel safe and supported in their educational environments.

The committee's discussions also touched on the broader implications of technology in schools, with members recognizing the need for comprehensive policies that extend beyond traditional bullying definitions. As the meeting concluded, the urgency of passing Senate Bill 747 was clear, with lawmakers committed to safeguarding students against the evolving threats posed by technology.

The committee's actions signal a significant step toward addressing the challenges of modern education and the protection of vulnerable students, ensuring that schools are equipped to respond effectively to the complexities of cyberbullying in the digital age.