HB1860 prohibits distributing materially deceptive media within 90 days before an election, with exceptions for clear disclaimers or bona fide news coverage. Penalties include unspecified fines and other consequences.
If you distribute media near elections, ensure it is not deceptive or face legal penalties immediately.
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What This Means
Illinois HB1860 amends the Election Code to prevent the distribution of deceptive media that falsely represents individuals and is reasonably likely to mislead voters within 90 days before an election. It targets actions intended to change voting behavior by deceiving electors and harming a candidate's reputation or electoral prospects. Exceptions include media with a 'clear and conspicuous disclaimer' identifying the media as altered, which must be easily noticeable and understandable, or 'bona fide news coverage' that is part of a legitimate news report produced by a recognized news organization. Penalties for violations include unspecified fines and other consequences.
Key Provisions
- Prohibits distribution of materially deceptive media that falsely represents individuals within 90 days before an election
- Requires intent to change voting behavior by deceiving electors and harm a candidate's reputation or electoral prospects
- Allows exceptions for media with a 'clear and conspicuous disclaimer' identifying the media as altered or 'bona fide news coverage' that is part of a legitimate news report produced by a recognized news organization
- Penalties for violations include unspecified fines and other consequences
Latest Legislative Action
Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Bill Sponsors (showing 5 of 24)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Abdelnasser Rashid D | Primary |
| Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz | Primary |
| Jim Durkin | Primary |
| Lou Lang | Primary |
| Michael J. Madigan | Primary |
Compliance Checklist
Who: Individuals and organizations distributing media.
Deadline: Immediately upon enactment.
Penalty: Class C misdemeanor for violations.
Who: Media distributors and candidates.
Deadline: Immediately upon enactment.
Penalty: Potential legal action for non-compliance.
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