The bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 609.771, which addresses the crime of using deep fakes to influence elections. Key modifications include a more detailed definition of "deep fake," specifying that it must be so realistic that a reasonable person would either misinterpret the content or have a fundamentally different understanding of it compared to the original. Additionally, the bill clarifies that disseminating a deep fake within 30 days of certain elections, without the consent of the depicted individual and with the intent to harm a candidate or influence election results, constitutes a crime. It also provides protections for entities that merely distribute political advertisements that violate this section.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new subdivision on severability, ensuring that if any part of the law is found unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be effective. The effective date for all changes is set for July 1, 2024, applying to crimes committed on or after that date. The amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding deep fakes in the context of elections, enhancing public safety and integrity in the electoral process.