House Bill No. 459 aims to enhance transparency in political campaigns by requiring disclosures related to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in creating electioneering communications and digital materials. The bill amends existing law (R.S. 18:1463) to include a new subsection (H) that mandates any electioneering communication or digital material portraying a candidate and created using AI to include a clear and understandable disclosure indicating its AI origin. This requirement applies to materials placed or promoted on public-facing websites, web applications, or digital applications within 60 days before an election. The bill also retains existing penalties for violations, which can include fines of up to $2,000 or imprisonment for up to two years.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions related to "artificial intelligence," "electioneering communication," and "candidate," ensuring consistency with current law. It emphasizes the importance of preventing public deception regarding AI-generated images or likenesses of candidates, thereby protecting the integrity of the electoral process. The proposed law maintains the existing penalties for violations while expanding the definition of "digital material" to include communications placed or promoted for any payment, not just a fee. Overall, this legislation seeks to uphold ethical standards in political campaigning by addressing the implications of AI technology.

Statutes affected:
HB459 Original: 18:1463(A)
HB459 Engrossed: 18:1463(A)
HB459 Reengrossed: 18:1463(A)