CA AB502

Strengthens disclosure requirements for manipulated election media by specifying that text must be in a contrasting color, use standard Arial Regular font, and meet minimum size requirements based on media type (4% of display height for video, 14 point for mailers, 11 point for electronic graphics)

Expands exemptions to allow election communications that include a disclosure stating content was "generated or substantially altered using artificial intelligence" or where a reasonable person would understand the content as satire or parody

Clarifies that the 120-day pre-election prohibition on deceptive media applies to candidates for any federal, state, or local elected office, including presidential and vice presidential candidates appearing on California ballots

Changes who may seek injunctive relief or sue for damages from "recipients" of deceptive content to the "depicted individual" who is falsely represented in the materially deceptive content

Maintains existing prohibition on knowingly distributing materially deceptive content portraying candidates, election officials, or voting equipment falsely within 120 days before an election (or 60 days after for election officials and equipment)