MD HB525

Prohibits disseminating deepfakes with fraudulent intent to influence a voter's decision whether to cast a vote or how to vote on candidates or ballot issues

Defines "deepfake" as AI-generated or digitally manipulated images, audio, or video recordings that create realistic but false depictions of a person that an ordinary person would believe to be authentic

Requires three elements for fraudulent intent: the deepfake misrepresents a material fact, the disseminator knows or recklessly disregards that it's a deepfake, and intends to deceive voters to influence their voting behavior

Exempts news media dissemination and satire/parody, as well as platform providers including internet services, social media, broadcasters, and publications

Violations constitute a misdemeanor punishable by up to $5,000 fine, up to 5 years imprisonment, or both; effective June 1, 2025