xAI files federal suit challenging Minnesota's anti-nudification AI law

Elon Musk's artificial-intelligence company xAI filed a federal lawsuit on Monday challenging Minnesota's recently enacted law that prohibits the use of "nudification" technology to create fake, sexualized images of individuals. The statute, HF 1606, was signed by Governor Tim Walz and is slated to take effect in August. It also creates a mechanism for victims and the state attorney general to pursue civil actions against providers of such AI tools.

The complaint contends that the law imposes an overbroad, content-based restriction on free speech and on visual expression tools, and that it subjects AI providers to strict liability even when they implement safeguards against non-consensual use. xAI argues that the law's definition of "intimate part" is overly expansive, potentially covering depictions of men without shirts, people in shorts or swimsuits, and other images that do not constitute nudification.

"We’re waiting to be served and will review the lawsuit and response in Court. But I know that using AI to generate nude images of people against their will is appalling," Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said. "There are plenty of worthy debates to have about AI policy. This is not one of them. AI nudification robs the target of their dignity and can cause immense harm on an emotional, personal, and professional level."

xAI is seeking a declaration that the law is unconstitutional and an order preventing its enforcement. Governor Walz responded on social media, stating, "See you in court, creep."