House Bill No. by Representative Bayham amends the definition of "child sexual abuse materials" under R.S. 14:81.1. The bill specifically adds "deepfake" to the existing definition, which previously included photographs, videotapes, films, and other reproductions of sexual performances involving children under the age of seventeen. The new legal language defines "deepfake" as any audio or visual media that is created, altered, or digitally manipulated to falsely appear as an authentic record of an individual's speech or conduct, or to replace an individual's likeness with another person in the recording.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that "deepfake" does not encompass materials that are considered works of political, public interest, or newsworthy value, such as commentary, criticism, satire, or parody, provided that there is clear disclosure that the media is not a record of a real event. The Louisiana State Law Institute is also directed to renumber the relevant paragraphs to properly incorporate the new definition. Overall, this legislation aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child sexual abuse materials by addressing the emerging technology of deepfakes.

Statutes affected:
HB38 Original: 14:1(B)(3)