New Jersey Assembly Bill A1825

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires certain disclosures of intentionally deceptive audio or visual media.

Impact

The implementation of A1825 is set to impose significant changes on media producers by legally requiring them to adhere to strict disclosure standards. Violating these standards will be classified as an unlawful practice under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act, with penalties including fines of up to $20,000 for repeated offenses. Furthermore, any producer who knowingly bypasses these disclosure requirements will face additional criminal charges. This aspect of the bill is positioned as an effort to safeguard the public against misinformation and protect individual rights in the media landscape.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1825 aims to amend existing regulations concerning the production and distribution of intentionally deceptive audio or visual media, termed 'advanced technological false personation records.' The bill mandates that such records, designed to mislead viewers or listeners by presenting false information about individuals, must clearly disclose the nature of their alterations. This includes the inclusion of an embedded digital watermark for video content, verbal and written statements identifying the deception, as well as descriptions of the alterations made. Such provisions are intended to enhance transparency in media consumption and mitigate potential harm caused by misrepresentation.

Contention

While supporters of A1825 argue that the bill is essential for protecting individuals from harmful misinformation and preserving the integrity of information circulated in public domains, there are concerns regarding potential overreach. Critics argue that the broad definitions used may stifle creativity and freedom of expression, particularly in artistic and satirical contexts. There is apprehension that the bill could inadvertently restrict legitimate practices in media creation, such as parody or other forms of expressive content that, while altered, do not intend to deceive the audience. Thus, the balance between regulation and creative freedom remains a contentious topic in the discussions surrounding the bill.