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HI SB2396

HI SB2396: Relating To Elections. Verified

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Disclaimer: This page provides general informational summaries only and does not constitute legal advice. AI-generated content may contain errors. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Read full disclaimer →
AI Summary

This bill prohibits distributing deceptive deepfakes of candidates or parties in electioneering communications before elections, with exceptions for bona fide newscasts and satire.

Business Impact

If you distribute electioneering communications in Hawaii, you must ensure they are not deceptive deepfakes or face legal action.

State
Hawaii
Bill Number
SB2396
Status
Introduced
Risk Level
Medium
Category
Narrow/Targeted
Last Action
Feb 9, 2024
Last Verified
May 1, 2026
Data Updated
May 1, 2026
What do these statuses mean?
Introduced — Filed in the legislature; not yet heard in committee
In Committee — Assigned to and being reviewed by a legislative committee
Passed — Approved by one or both chambers; awaiting further action
Signed / Enacted — Signed into law by the governor; may or may not be in effect yet
Dead / Vetoed — Vetoed, failed to pass, or session expired without action
Unknown — Status data not yet available or awaiting classification

Affected Industries

Political Campaigning Advertising General Media Political Campaigns

Topics How we classify →

What This Means

Hawaii's SB2396 aims to combat political misinformation by prohibiting the distribution of deceptive deepfakes in election communications. This legislation targets individuals and entities involved in electioneering, ensuring transparency and accountability in political media. The bill outlines specific requirements for disclosures, including mandatory disclosure statements in synthetic media, and penalties for violations, reflecting a growing trend in states to regulate the use of synthetic media in elections.

Key Provisions

Latest Legislative Action

The committee on JDC deferred the measure.

Bill Sponsors

Name Role District
Sponsor SD-006
Sponsor SD-013

Compliance Checklist

Ensure electioneering communications do not include deceptive deepfakes.
Who: Individuals and organizations distributing electioneering communications.
Deadline: Within 90 days prior to an election.
Penalty: Legal action from affected candidates.
Include required disclosure statements for synthetic media.
Who: Distributors of synthetic media in election communications.
Deadline: Before distribution of such media.
Penalty: Potential fines and legal action.

Full Legal Analysis

SB2396 establishes clear prohibitions against the distribution of deceptive deepfakes in electioneering communications within 90 days prior to elections. Individuals or organizations that distribute synthetic media that they know or should know is deceptive face potential legal consequences. The bill allows candidates depicted in such media to seek injunctive relief and damages, thereby empowering them to protect their reputations. Key definitions are provided, including 'deceptive and fraudulent deepfake' and 'synthetic media,' which clarify the scope of the legislation. Exceptions are made for bona fide newscasts, good faith efforts by broadcasters, and satire or parody. Disclosure statements must be included in synthetic media to avoid penalties, with specific requirements for both audio and visual media. This bill aligns with similar laws enacted in other states, reflecting a nationwide effort to address the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital age.

Official Source


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