The bill makes using synthetic digital content for fraud a Class 1 misdemeanor and allows civil actions for damages. Substantive provisions require reenactment by 2026.
If you use synthetic digital content in Virginia, you must ensure it is not used for fraud or face misdemeanor charges.
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What This Means
Virginia's SB1053 expands legal definitions and penalties related to synthetic digital content, including deepfakes. It allows individuals depicted in such content to seek damages and mandates a study on enforcement. This bill impacts creators and users of synthetic media.
Key Provisions
- Defines synthetic digital content and expands defamation laws to include it.
- Establishes a Class 1 misdemeanor for using synthetic content in fraud.
- Allows individuals depicted in synthetic content to sue for damages.
- Directs the Attorney General to form a work group for enforcement study.
- Substantive provisions effective only if reenacted by 2026.
- Mirrors HB 2124.
Latest Legislative Action
Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0407)
Compliance Checklist
Who: All individuals and entities using synthetic digital content
Penalty: Class 1 misdemeanor
Who: Creators and users of synthetic digital content
Penalty: Liability for actual damages and attorney fees
Related & Companion Bills
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