Bill > HB366

This bill adds a new section to the Texas Election Code that addresses political advertising containing altered media, particularly those created using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The legislation applies to officeholders, candidates, or political committees that spend over $100 on political advertising or distribute altered media content. Under the proposed law, it would be illegal to publish political advertising with manipulated images, audio, or video recordings of a candidate or officeholder that did not occur in reality, unless the alteration is purely superficial (like adjusting color or brightness) or the advertisement includes a clear disclosure that the media is not real. The Texas election commission will be responsible for establishing specific guidelines for this disclosure, including details about font, size, and color. Violations of this section would be considered a Class A misdemeanor. The bill explicitly protects internet service providers, broadcasters, telecommunications networks, and commercial sign owners from liability for such altered political advertising published by others. The new law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing ample time for political entities to understand and comply with the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB366