Bill > HB2394

This bill adds a new section to Arizona law that allows candidates for public office or political party office, as well as Arizona citizens, to bring a legal action for "digital impersonation." The key provisions are: 1) The bill defines "digital impersonation" as synthetic media (like video or audio) that has been manipulated to replace a person's likeness or voice with another's, with the intention to deceive viewers into believing it is authentic. 2) A plaintiff must prove the digital impersonation was published without consent and the publisher did not make it clear the content was inauthentic. The main remedy is declaratory relief, though in certain cases the plaintiff can also seek injunctive relief and damages. 3) The bill sets expedited procedures for the court to consider requests for preliminary declaratory relief, with a decision required within 2 days. It also establishes different standards of proof for preliminary, permanent, and monetary relief. 4) The bill specifies that the law should be narrowly construed to balance free speech and artistic expression with protections against digital impersonation. It also provides for jury trials in contested cases seeking permanent relief or damages.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/80254