The bill in question seeks to criminalize the creation and distribution of "materially deceptive media" related to elections. "Materially deceptive media" is defined as any artificial intelligence-produced image, audio, or video that falsely represents an individual's speech or conduct, is likely to deceive, and could influence an election. The bill prohibits the distribution of such media within 90 days before an election if intended to harm a candidate or deceive voters. Exceptions are made for media with clear disclaimers or for satire, parody, and certain news coverage. Violations are treated as a Class A misdemeanor, with repeat offenses within five years classified as a Class D felony. The bill also allows for permanent injunctive relief against violators and includes protections for unknowing distributors. The act is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2024.
The legislative process of the bill, HB172, involved its passage in the House on March 21, 2024, with amendments, followed by further amendment and passage in the Senate on May 8, 2024. The House concurred with the Senate's amendments on May 9, 2024. The bill's amendments and the concurrence between the House and Senate indicate a collaborative effort to refine the bill's provisions. The Clerk of the House, John Treadwell, certified the bill's passage and amendments within the House of Representatives. The specific amendments made by each chamber are not detailed in the provided text, but their agreement on the final form of the bill is noted.