In one paragraph
Illinois's HB 3303 (104th General Assembly) would add Section 29-21 to the Election Code. A person could not distribute, or agree to distribute, materially deceptive media within 90 days before an election if the person knows it falsely represents a depicted individual, intends to harm a candidate and to change votes by deceiving electors, and both results are reasonably likely. Re-referred to the House Rules Committee March 27, 2026.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
Not law. If enacted, anyone distributing materially deceptive media of a depicted individual within 90 days of an election, with the stated knowledge and intent, could face penalties.
Key provisions
- Would bar distributing, or agreeing to distribute, materially deceptive media that the person knows falsely represents a depicted individual
- Applies to distribution within 90 days before an election
- Requires intent to harm a candidate's reputation or electoral prospects, and intent to change voting behavior by deceiving electors, with the result reasonably likely
- Defines 'deepfake' as realistic media of speech or conduct the depicted individual did not engage in, produced substantially by technical means
- Sets exceptions and penalties; effective immediately if enacted
- Re-referred to Rules March 27, 2026 after assignment to Ethics & Elections
Latest legislative action
Mar 27, 2026. Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Sponsors (showing 5 of 40)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Ann Williams D | Primary |
| David Harris | Primary |
| Don Harmon D | Primary |
| Fred Crespo D | Primary |
| Jay Hoffman D | Primary |
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error