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 introduces new definitions for "deep fake" and outlines the conditions under which disseminating a deep fake to influence an election is considered a crime. It establishes penalties for such violations, including imprisonment and fines, and specifies that candidates convicted of these offenses will be disqualified from holding office.

Key insertions in the bill include the addition of section 609.771, which defines deep fakes and outlines the legal consequences for their use in elections. The bill also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the law is found unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be effective. All new provisions and amendments will take effect on July 1, 2024, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 211B.17, 211B.18
1st Engrossment: 211B.17, 211B.18