The bill aims to enhance public safety by modifying existing laws related to deep fake election crimes and disqualifying convicted individuals from holding elected office. It amends Minnesota Statutes to include provisions that state if a candidate is found guilty of violating election laws, including those related to deep fakes, they will forfeit their nomination or office. The bill specifies that a candidate convicted of disseminating a deep fake with the intent to influence an election will be disqualified from holding any office for which the legislature may establish qualifications. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2024, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Key insertions in the bill include the definition of "deep fake," which describes realistic technological representations that mislead viewers, and the conditions under which disseminating such content constitutes a crime. The bill also introduces penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines, and allows for injunctive relief against individuals believed to be violating these provisions. Additionally, a severability clause is included to ensure that if any part of the law is found unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be effective.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 211B.17, 211B.18