Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF3550

Introduced
2/12/24  
Refer
2/12/24  
Refer
2/15/24  

Caption

Deep fake election crimes modifications and disqualification of a convicted person from holding elected office provision

Impact

Should SF3550 be enacted, its most significant impact would be in altering state laws regarding electoral qualifications. The legislation would ensure that individuals found guilty of employing deep fakes or other deceptive tactics in election-related contexts would face automatic disqualification from running for or holding public office. This change aims to deter potential offenders and safeguard the electoral system against manipulation through modern technology.

Summary

SF3550 introduces legislative modifications aimed at addressing deep fake election crimes, primarily focusing on the disqualification of individuals convicted of these offenses from holding elected office. The bill seeks to strengthen the integrity of the electoral process by outlining the repercussions for those who engage in deceptive practices that could undermine public trust and fair democratic processes. By targeting the specific issue of deep fakes, the bill acknowledges the evolving nature of election-related crimes in the digital age.

Conclusion

In summary, SF3550 seeks to navigate complex issues in electoral law by addressing the ramifications of digital deception in elections. As debates progress, stakeholders are likely to weigh the need for robust protections against fraudulent practices against the rights of individuals, emphasizing the need for careful implementation and consideration of the law's implications.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SF3550 may highlight points of contention related to the balance between election integrity and individual rights. Critics could argue that such disqualification measures might be overly punitive or could be used discriminatorily against political opponents. Additionally, there are concerns about how such an expansive definition of election crimes could be applied and whether it could inadvertently affect legitimate political discourse. The determination of what constitutes a deep fake in an election context raises questions about potential misuse of the law.

Companion Bills

MN HF3625

Similar To Deep fake election crime modified, and convicted person disqualified from holding elected office.

Previously Filed As

MN HF3625

Deep fake election crime modified, and convicted person disqualified from holding elected office.

MN SF4029

Deep fake election crime modification

MN SF4729

Omnibus Elections policy bill

MN HF4772

Elections policy and finance bill.

MN HF1370

Cause of action for nonconsensual dissemination of deep fake sexual images established, crime of using deep fake technology to influence an election established, and crime for nonconsensual dissemination of deep fake sexual images established.

MN SF2232

Various election administration provisions modifications

MN SF1191

Election administration provisions modifications

MN SF3285

Election modifications provisions

MN HB1689

Election crime; create for dissemination of a deep fake within 90 days of an election.

MN SF4432

Local election and certain absentee voting provisions modifications

Similar Bills

MN HF5040

Pensions supplemental budget bill.

MN SF4643

Omnibus Pension bill

MN HF20

Wage credits modified and reimbursement provided, general fund transfers authorized, unemployment insurance aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.

MN SF32

Wage credits modification and reimbursement provision; unemployment insurance aid establishment and appropriation

MN SF2103

Refundability removal of the child tax credit and working family credit

MN SF2673

Child tax credit advance payments repeal

MN SF4328

Criminal penalties increase for human trafficking offenses

MN HF4321

Criminal penalties for human trafficking offenses increased, sanctuary cities prohibited, and reports required.