SB 1217 Pennsylvania Senate · 2023-2024 Regular Session

An Act providing for civil liability for fraudulent misrepresentation of candidates; and imposing penalties.

This bill, known as the Fraudulent Misrepresentation of a Candidate Prevention Act, establishes civil liability for anyone who uses artificial intelligence to create fake images, videos, or text that impersonate current or former candidates for public office. It specifically targets advertisements distributed within 90 days of an election if they are made with the intent to misrepresent a candidate's words, actions, or beliefs. Affected candidates can sue for punitive damages and legal fees, while courts may also impose daily fines ranging from $15,000 to $250,000 depending on the level of office involved. The law includes defenses for those who obtain written consent from the impersonated individual and provides exemptions for news organizations and law enforcement performing official duties when they clearly disclose the artificial nature of the content.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced May 29, 2024 Last action May 29, 2024
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Total actions
1
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0
Committee
1
May 29, 2024
Committee
Referred to State Government
upper
1 primary · 11 co-sponsors

Sponsors