MN HF1370

Establishes a civil cause of action for nonconsensual dissemination of deep fake sexual images, allowing plaintiffs to recover general and special damages, profits made from dissemination, civil penalties up to $100,000, and attorney fees.

Creates a criminal offense for disseminating deep fakes to influence elections within 90 days before an election, with penalties ranging from 90 days imprisonment/$1,000 fine to 5 years imprisonment/$10,000 fine depending on prior convictions and intent to cause violence.

Establishes a gross misdemeanor crime for intentionally disseminating deep fake sexual images depicting intimate parts or sexual acts without consent, with enhanced penalties up to 3 years imprisonment/$5,000 fine if aggravating factors are present such as financial loss, intent to profit, harassment, or prior convictions.

Provides exemptions from liability for dissemination made for lawful criminal investigations, reporting unlawful conduct, medical treatment, commercial artistic purposes with knowledge, public interest matters, scientific research, and legal proceedings.

All provisions become effective August 1, 2023, and apply to dissemination occurring on or after that date; grants courts authority to issue injunctions, temporary restraining orders, and confidential filings to protect privacy.