CA AB972

Extends the repeal date of California's deceptive media law from January 1, 2023 to January 1, 2027, allowing the prohibition on manipulated audio and visual media to remain in effect for four additional years.

Prohibits distribution of materially deceptive audio or visual media of candidates within 60 days of an election with actual malice and intent to injure reputation or deceive voters, unless the media includes a clear disclosure stating it has been manipulated.

Allows candidates whose voice or likeness appears in deceptive media to seek injunctive relief and bring civil actions for damages, attorney's fees, and costs, with cases entitled to calendar precedence under Code of Civil Procedure Section 35.

Exempts satire, parody, news broadcasts with authenticity disclaimers, paid political broadcasts, and publications that clearly state the media does not accurately represent the candidate's speech or conduct.

Defines "materially deceptive audio or visual media" as intentionally manipulated content that would falsely appear authentic to a reasonable person and would cause a fundamentally different understanding of the candidate's expressive content.