South Carolina Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Ban Deepfake Media in 2024 Elections
A bill has been proposed in South Carolina to combat the potential spread of misinformation through deepfake media during the upcoming 2024 elections. State Representative Jermaine Johnson of District 70 is spearheading the effort to pass Bill H.4660, which aims to prohibit the use of deepfake media within 90 days leading up to an election, unless the affected person provides disclosure.
Deepfake media refers to the creation of content that mimics the appearance or mannerisms of another individual using images, audio, or video recordings. Although originally a form of creative entertainment, it has become a concern for candidates, elected officials, and voters at various levels of government.
The accessibility of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and deepfake media is a major cause for concern among proponents of the bill. Numerous face swap apps and similar tools are readily available, many of them free, making it easier for malicious actors to manipulate and spread deceptive information.
Isaac Cramer, the Executive Director of the Charleston County Board of Voter Registration and Elections, emphasized the need to address the origin of information and urged people to question its source. He expressed concerns about the potential for misinformation campaigns to cause irreparable harm to candidates, highlighting the difficulty of retracting false statements and repairing the damage caused.
Under Bill H.4660, individuals impersonating candidates or intentionally discouraging voter participation using synthetic media could face penalties. A first offense could result in a 90-day jail term and a $500 fine. Subsequent offenses may lead to a maximum of five years of imprisonment, a $1,000 fine, or both.
Representative Johnson clarified that the proposed legislation is not intended to stifle freedom of speech or artistic expression. Instead, it aims to protect individuals and ensure they are shielded from the potentially devastating consequences of false information.
The legislative session recently commenced at the State House, providing an opportunity for Representative Johnson to initiate discussions on the bill. His ultimate goal is to have the legislation passed ahead of the 2024 elections.
The proposed measures spotlight the urgent need to address the threat posed by deepfake media, particularly in the context of political campaigns. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for lawmakers across the United States to remain vigilant and take steps to safeguard the integrity of elections.
