The bill amends the Revised Code and introduces a new section, 3517.24, aimed at regulating the dissemination of deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media during election periods. It defines "synthetic media" as realistic but false representations created through advanced digital technologies, and prohibits the reckless dissemination of such media from ninety days before an election until election day unless proper disclosures are made. Key provisions require that manipulated images include a statement indicating AI manipulation, while audio recordings must have a clear spoken disclosure at the beginning and end, with additional requirements for longer recordings.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a process for filing complaints with the Ohio elections commission regarding violations, stipulating that no prosecution can occur without a prior complaint. It allows the commission to impose fines for violations, with penalties ranging from $1,000 for general infractions to $10,000 for repeat offenses or those intended to incite violence. The bill also permits individuals harmed by violations to seek civil action for relief and modifies the commission's authority to ensure fines are directed to the Ohio elections commission fund. Additionally, it repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code to streamline enforcement and compliance.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3517.153, 3517.154, 3517.155, 3517.993, 3599.40