This bill amends section 49-1401 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, to enhance regulations surrounding the distribution of deepfakes and synthetic media in the context of elections. It introduces definitions for "deceptive and fraudulent deepfake" and "synthetic media," and prohibits the distribution of such media that misrepresents a candidate or political party within ninety days of an election. Exceptions are provided for media that includes a clear disclosure about its manipulation, as well as for certain broadcasting and publication scenarios that meet specific criteria.

Additionally, the bill allows candidates depicted in deceptive deepfakes to seek injunctive or equitable relief against the publication of such content. It also includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still stand. The original section 49-1401 is repealed, and the new provisions are intended to promote transparency and accountability in political media during election periods.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 49-1401