If enacted, this bill would amend Arizona Revised Statutes section 13-2006 to include the use of computer-generated voice recordings, images, or videos of another person with the intent to defraud as a form of criminal impersonation. This new provision would be classified as a class 5 felony, which carries a presumptive prison sentence of 1.5 years for first-time offenders, as opposed to the current classification of criminal impersonation under existing paragraphs, which is a class 6 felony.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that certain forms of expression, such as comedy, parody, or artistic criticism, are not considered fraudulent if it is evident to a reasonable observer that the media has been digitally manipulated. The bill also defines "defraud" as making a false representation or material omission to deceive another person for personal gain. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen legal protections against fraudulent impersonation using modern technology while maintaining allowances for legitimate artistic expression.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-2006
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-2006
House Engrossed Version: 13-2006
Chaptered Version: 13-2006