Bill > S44

This bill introduces new legal provisions to combat election misinformation, specifically targeting the distribution of materially deceptive election-related communications using artificial intelligence and synthetic media. The bill defines key terms like "generative artificial intelligence" and "synthetic media", and prohibits the distribution of communications that contain verifiably false information about election details (such as voting dates, registration requirements, or candidate endorsements) within 90 days of an election, if done with the intent to mislead voters. The legislation allows individuals whose voice or likeness is used in such deceptive communications to seek injunctive relief or damages, with the plaintiff required to provide clear and convincing evidence. The bill includes important exceptions for news broadcasts, satire, and parody, and does not alter existing internet service provider protections. Significantly, the law applies to various entities including individuals, political parties, campaign committees, and other organizations, and aims to protect the integrity of election information by creating legal mechanisms to address and penalize the intentional spread of election-related misinformation.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S44