Bill > S0023

This bill, relating to the use of synthetic media in elections, defines "synthetic media" as any digitally created or manipulated image, audio, or video that realistically depicts an individual's appearance, speech, or conduct, and "deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media" as such media that harms a candidate's reputation or attempts to unduly influence an election by providing false information. It requires that within 90 days before an election, anyone distributing deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media must include a clear disclosure stating that the media has been manipulated and depicts speech or conduct that did not occur, with specific requirements for how this disclosure must be presented in images, videos, and audio recordings, and it includes exceptions for bona fide news broadcasts, satire, parody, and content provided by telecommunications or interactive computer service providers. The bill also establishes penalties for violations, including fines that increase with the intent to cause harm or for repeat offenses, and allows candidates to seek court orders to stop the distribution of deceptive synthetic media, while also granting the Attorney General and State's Attorneys broad powers to investigate potential violations, including demanding documents and testimony, with penalties for obstructing such investigations.