The bill H. 3517 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 7-25-230, which prohibits the distribution of deceptive and fraudulent deepfake media of a candidate within ninety days of an election unless the media includes a specific disclosure. The bill defines "synthetic media" and "deceptive and fraudulent deepfake," outlining the conditions under which such media can be distributed. If the media includes a disclosure stating that it has been manipulated or generated by artificial intelligence, the prohibition does not apply. The disclosure requirements vary for visual and audio media to ensure clarity for viewers and listeners.

Additionally, the bill grants candidates whose likeness is depicted in violation of this section the right to seek injunctive relief and damages against the distributor of the deceptive media. Violators of this law may face misdemeanor charges, with increased penalties for repeat offenses. Certain exceptions are included, such as for bona fide news broadcasts and satire or parody. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 7-25-230
Latest Version: 7-25-230