Bill > SB649

This bill adds a new section to Pennsylvania's criminal code that establishes the offense of digital forgery, which occurs when a person generates or distributes a digitally manipulated visual or audio representation of an identifiable individual with the intent to defraud or injure someone. The bill defines a "forged digital likeness" as a computer-generated representation that closely resembles a genuine image or recording, materially misrepresents the individual's appearance or speech, is likely to deceive a reasonable person, and is created without the individual's consent. The offense is graded as a first-degree misdemeanor, but becomes a third-degree felony if the digital forgery is part of a scheme to defraud, coerce, or steal monetary assets or property. The bill includes several important exceptions, such as satire, parody, commentary, law enforcement activities, and technology providers. An affirmative defense is available if the defendant took reasonable steps to notify viewers or listeners that the digital likeness is not genuine. The law is designed to protect individuals from malicious digital manipulation while preserving protections for free speech and legitimate uses of digital technology, and it will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=649