This bill establishes additional penalties for the non-consensual disclosure of intimate images or forged intimate images of candidates for public office, categorizing such actions as a crime of the third degree. This classification carries potential penalties of three to five years of imprisonment, fines up to $15,000, or both. The bill defines "intimate image" and "forged intimate image," with the latter referring to images that are digitally altered to appear realistic, commonly known as deepfakes. It also clarifies that a candidate's consent to being photographed does not imply consent for the disclosure of those images, and candidates who are victims of such violations can pursue civil actions for damages.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that convictions for this new crime will not merge with existing invasion of privacy laws, allowing for separate charges and penalties. This legislative measure aims to address the growing concern over the misuse of intimate images, particularly in the context of elections, where malicious actors may seek to disrupt the democratic process. By imposing stricter penalties, the bill seeks to deter such actions and protect the privacy of candidates.