Bill > HB1205

This bill updates Washington state law to create legal provisions against the malicious distribution of digitally forged likenesses, which are defined as digital visual or audio representations of a real person that have been artificially created or manipulated to be indistinguishable from genuine content, misrepresent the individual's appearance or conduct, and are likely to deceive a reasonable person. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision to criminal impersonation laws making it a gross misdemeanor to knowingly distribute such a forged digital likeness with intent to defraud, harass, threaten, intimidate, or for any other unlawful purpose, while also knowing or reasonably should know that the digital likeness is not genuine. The bill includes important protections for free expression by explicitly stating that the law does not prohibit the distribution of digital likenesses for cultural, historical, political, religious, educational, newsworthy, or public interest purposes, including artistic works, commentary, satire, and parody protected by state or federal constitutional rights. Additionally, the law provides liability protections for internet service providers, mobile telecommunications services, and telecommunications networks who may host or transmit such content created by third parties.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1205&Year=2025&Initiative=false