The bill S.23 aims to regulate the use of synthetic media in elections by requiring the disclosure of deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media within 90 days of an election. It introduces a new subchapter in Vermont law that defines "deceptive and fraudulent synthetic media" as any synthetic representation of an individual intended to mislead voters or harm a candidate's reputation. The bill mandates that any synthetic media that meets this definition must include a clear disclosure stating that it has been created or manipulated using digital technology or artificial intelligence. Specific guidelines for the visibility and audibility of these disclosures are also outlined, depending on whether the media is visual or audio.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for violations, with fines ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 based on the intent and prior offenses of the violator. It also allows candidates whose representations are misrepresented through deceptive synthetic media to seek injunctive relief. Furthermore, a new subchapter is added to provide enforcement mechanisms, allowing the State's Attorney or Attorney General to take action against violations of this chapter. The act is set to take effect upon passage.