Senate Bill No. 894 establishes new regulations regarding the creation and distribution of synthetic media, specifically deepfakes, in the context of political candidates and parties in Oklahoma. The bill defines key terms such as "artificial intelligence," "deepfake," and "synthetic media," and prohibits the creation or distribution of deepfakes within 90 days of an election unless a clear disclosure is included. This disclosure must inform viewers that the media has been manipulated or generated by artificial intelligence, with specific requirements for visibility and audibility depending on the type of media.
Additionally, the bill outlines the legal recourse available to candidates depicted in deepfakes, allowing them to seek injunctive relief or damages against violators. It also establishes civil penalties for violations, with fines varying based on the severity of the offense. Certain exemptions are included for media outlets that broadcast deepfakes as part of bona fide news coverage or that clearly acknowledge questions about the authenticity of the media. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.