Bill > HB2795

This bill amends the Texas Election Code to create new criminal offenses related to creating and distributing misleading digital media during elections. Specifically, the bill establishes criminal penalties for creating and distributing "deep fake videos" and "altered images" with the intent to deceive and influence election results. A deep fake video is defined as a video that appears to show a real person performing an action that did not actually occur, while an altered image is defined as a manipulated image that changes a person's physical appearance or depicts them doing something they did not do. The bill classifies creating and distributing deep fake videos as a Class A misdemeanor, and creating and distributing altered images as a Class B misdemeanor. An affirmative defense is provided for altered images that include a clear label stating the image has been modified. The legislation excludes satirical images, cartoons, and minor visual adjustments from the definition of altered images. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed on or after that date, protecting existing legal standards for previously committed actions.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2795