The bill aims to combat election misinformation by amending existing laws to include new definitions and prohibitions related to deceptive media and communications. It introduces definitions for "Candidate," "Materially deceptive audio or visual media," "Materially deceptive election-related communication," "Person," and "Synthetic media" into Section 1 of Chapter 50 of the General Laws. The bill specifically prohibits the distribution of materially deceptive audio or visual media and election-related communications within 90 days of an election, if done with actual malice and with the intent to mislead voters or harm a candidate's reputation.

Additionally, the bill provides legal recourse for candidates and individuals whose likenesses are used in such deceptive media, allowing them to seek injunctive relief and damages against those responsible for the distribution. It also clarifies that certain entities, such as interactive service providers and broadcasting stations, are exempt from these prohibitions under specific conditions, including when the content is part of bona fide news coverage or clearly labeled as deceptive. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process by addressing the spread of false information that could mislead voters.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 50-1