California has enacted some of the nation’s strictest measures to combat the spread of deepfakes in elections ahead of the 2024 vote.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills at an AI conference in San Francisco.
New policies include a law targeting AI-generated fake political ads and materials that could mislead the electorate.
This law, which took effect immediately, allows individuals to sue for damages if they have been harmed by deepfake content.
It also empowers courts to order the removal of misleading AI-generated materials that misrepresent candidates, election processes, or even election workers.
Gov. Newsom said these measures are vital for preserving public trust in elections at a time when AI technologies are advancing rapidly.
They will also position the state at the forefront of addressing artificial intelligence’s potential impact on election integrity.
“This is about protecting democracy, ensuring that Californians get the truth, not manipulated fabrications that could sway how …