This bill establishes prohibitions and criminal penalties for the disclosure of intentionally deceptive audio or visual media, commonly referred to as deepfakes, within 90 days of an election. It defines "deceptive audio or visual media" as any media that misrepresents a person's speech or conduct, and it criminalizes the act of knowingly or recklessly disclosing such media with the intent to deceive voters about candidates or public questions on the ballot. A first offense is classified as a crime of the fourth degree, while subsequent offenses escalate to a third-degree crime, with corresponding penalties including imprisonment and fines.
Additionally, the bill allows registered voters and candidates to seek civil remedies against those who violate these provisions, including injunctive relief and damages. However, it includes exceptions for minor alterations of a person's image, disclosures made for criticism or news reporting, and protections for certain entities such as interactive computer service providers and media outlets that publish newsworthy content. The bill emphasizes the need for disclaimers when deceptive media is used in specific contexts, ensuring that the public is informed about the manipulated nature of the content.