Bill > HB525

This bill introduces a new legal provision addressing the use of deepfakes in elections, defining a deepfake as an image, audio, or video recording intentionally created or manipulated using artificial intelligence or digital technology to create a realistic but false depiction of a person that would appear genuine to an ordinary person. The bill prohibits individuals from disseminating deepfakes with fraudulent intent to influence a voter's decision about casting a vote or supporting a particular candidate or ballot issue. To be considered fraudulent, the deepfake must misrepresent a material fact, be knowingly or recklessly distributed as a deepfake, and be intended to deceive voters into changing their voting behavior. The bill provides exceptions for news media, satire, and parody, and explicitly protects various service providers (like internet services, broadcasters, and publishers) from liability if their platforms are used to spread deepfakes. Violations of this provision would be considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both. The law is set to take effect on June 1, 2025, reflecting the growing concerns about the potential manipulation of electoral processes through advanced digital technologies.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0525?ys=2025RS