The bill establishes a new chapter in Title 42 RCW that defines "synthetic media" in the context of electioneering communications for candidates running for elective office. Synthetic media is characterized as manipulated images, audio, or video that create a false representation of an individual's appearance, speech, or conduct. The bill allows candidates who are subjects of such media to take legal action against those who sponsor the communications, provided there is actual malice involved. Candidates can seek injunctive relief, damages, and reasonable attorneys' fees. An affirmative defense is available if the synthetic media includes a clear disclosure stating that it has been manipulated.
Additionally, the bill outlines the liability of sponsors and broadcasting stations regarding synthetic media. Sponsors can be held liable for the content they produce, while broadcasting stations may be liable if they remove required disclosures or alter the content with actual malice. The bill also clarifies that interactive computer services are not considered publishers of third-party content but can be held liable under specific circumstances. The public disclosure commission is empowered to adopt rules to support the chapter's objectives, and the act includes a severability clause to ensure that if any provision is invalidated, the remaining provisions remain effective.