Texas bill targets anime and video games with underage characters in obscene content

Texas bill could criminalize owning anime or games with underage characters in sexually suggestive content.

A newly passed Texas bill has sparked concern among anime and video game communities. Senate Bill 20, which was unanimously approved by state senators, proposes criminal penalties for anyone possessing or distributing visual material that depicts minors—real or fictional—in “obscene” ways. If signed into law, it would amend Chapter 43 of the Texas penal code to include cartoons, animations, and AI-generated content under its scope.

While the bill specifically targets obscene content involving minors, its language is broad enough that many anime, manga, and video games could be caught in the crossfire. The law states that a felony is committed if a person knowingly possesses or promotes such material, regardless of whether the character depicted is real or computer-generated. “Obscene” is defined as content that lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value when considered in its entirety—leaving room for interpretation.

This ambiguity has alarmed fans of popular titles like Persona 5, Kill la Kill, Bleach, Gurren Lagann, and Monogatari. These works often feature high school-aged characters or fantastical figures presented in suggestive ways. Persona 5, for example, incorporates dating mechanics involving teenage characters, while Kill la Kill and Bleach are known for their provocative depictions of minors. The Monogatari series goes further, including explicit scenes involving characters who appear underage, despite narrative justifications.

If passed, this could mean that individuals owning popular titles could unknowingly commit a felony, raising serious concerns among fans and collectors. Though the bill has not yet become law, unanimous Senate support suggests strong political momentum.

As the bill advances through the legislative process, concerns grow over how its enforcement might reshape access to beloved titles and redefine the boundaries of creative expression in Texas.