This bill would add a new section to the Federal Election Campaign Act that bars knowingly distributing materially deceptive AI-generated audio or visual media about candidates for Federal office before an election. The bill defines such media as AI or machine-learning produced images, audio, or video that merge, replace, or generate inauthentic content that a reasonable person would take to show or say something different from the original. The prohibition applies to a person, political committee, or other entity that distributes the media with the intent to influence an election or to solicit funds.
The bill includes exceptions for broadcasters and streaming services that show the content as part of bona fide newscasts, interviews, documentaries, or on-the-spot news coverage if they clearly acknowledge questions about authenticity; for regularly published newspapers, magazines, or electronic news publications that clearly state the content is not accurate; and for satire or parody. It creates civil remedies: a covered individual (a candidate) may seek injunctions or other equitable relief and may sue for general or special damages. Courts may award attorney's fees and costs to a prevailing party. The plaintiff must prove a violation by clear and convincing evidence. The bill also states that violating the new section will count as defamation per se and includes a severability clause.
No publicly available information.
The bill’s text frames its purpose as preventing distribution of materially deceptive AI-generated audio or visual media about federal candidates and providing legal remedies to covered individuals. It sets clear definitions, prohibitions tied to intent to influence elections or solicit funds, and exceptions for news and satire.
No publicly available information.