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Bill > A5794
NJ A5794
NJ A5794Prohibits election-related identity theft; upgrades dissemination of false campaign communications to third degree crime.
summary
Introduced
06/16/2025
06/16/2025
In Committee
06/16/2025
06/16/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill amends the identity theft statute to include a prohibition on the unlawful impersonation of a person, including through false depictions using computer software commonly known as "deepfakes," where the impersonation is in furtherance of the nomination, election, or defeat of any candidate, or in aid of the passage or defeat of any public question in an election. Under the bill, such election-related unlawful impersonation is a crime of the third degree. However, if the offense occurs within 90 days of an election, it is upgraded to a crime of the second degree. In addition, the bill upgrades the offense of knowingly producing, transmitting, or disseminating a false election advertisement that purports to be from a campaign for the purpose of impeding that campaign, by concealing the actual origin of the advertisement, from a disorderly persons offense to a crime of the third degree. A crime of the second degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of five to 10 years, a fine of up to $150,000, or both. A crime of the third degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of 3 to 5 years, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.
AI Summary
This bill updates New Jersey's identity theft and election laws to more comprehensively address digital impersonation and false campaign communications. The legislation specifically criminalizes the use of "deepfakes" or other digital technologies to impersonate candidates or interfere with elections, making such actions a third-degree crime that can be elevated to a second-degree crime if committed within 90 days of an election. The bill expands the definition of "benefit" to include election-related actions, such as attempting to influence candidate nominations or election outcomes. Additionally, the bill upgrades the offense of knowingly producing or disseminating false election advertisements that misrepresent their origin from a disorderly persons offense to a third-degree crime. Penalties for these crimes can include imprisonment (3-10 years depending on the degree) and substantial fines (up to $15,000-$150,000). The legislation aims to protect the integrity of electoral processes by creating stronger legal deterrents against digital impersonation and misinformation campaigns that could potentially manipulate voter perceptions or interfere with election outcomes.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee (on 06/16/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5794 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/A6000/5794_I1.HTM |
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