Bill > HB697

This bill addresses the use of synthetic media (digitally manipulated images, audio, or video created using artificial intelligence) in criminal activities, particularly fraud. It defines key terms such as artificial intelligence, generative AI, and synthetic media, and expands existing laws to explicitly cover digital manipulations. The bill makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor to use synthetic media to commit any criminal offense, with penalties separate from the primary criminal charge. Individuals depicted in such synthetic media can bring civil lawsuits to recover damages and attorney fees. Additionally, the bill requires the Attorney General to convene a work group to study the enforcement of laws related to synthetic media, including deepfakes, and make recommendations for addressing fraudulent uses. The work group will include representatives from various government offices, technology experts, and legislative members, and must report its findings by the first day of the 2025 Regular Session of the General Assembly. The legislation aims to provide legal protections against malicious uses of AI-generated content while preserving existing protections for interactive computer services.

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https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?251+sum+HB697