S.F. No. 4029 - Deep Fake Election Crime

• Defines "deep fake" as realistic video, audio, images, or technological representations that a reasonable person would believe depicts speech or conduct not actually performed by the depicted individual, or would materially change understanding of the content.

• Criminalizes dissemination of deep fakes without consent within 30 days before political party nominating conventions, primaries, or special elections, or 90 days before general elections, if done with intent to injure a candidate or influence election results.

• Exempts websites, social media platforms, newspapers, magazines, radio/television broadcasters, cable operators, and streaming services from violation if their only role is distributing political advertisements prohibited by this section.

• Authorizes injunctive relief suits by the attorney general, county or city attorneys, depicted individuals, or injured candidates for nomination or election to public office.

• Adds severability clause protecting the statute if any provision is found unconstitutional; effective July 1, 2024.