New Jersey Assembly Bill A2819

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Prohibits creation or disclosure of deceptive audio or visual media, known as "deepfakes," under certain circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, A2819 will introduce significant modifications to New Jersey's legal landscape regarding media manipulation and personal rights. The bill establishes specific criminal offenses associated with the creation and dissemination of deceptive media, categorizing them as fourth- or third-degree crimes depending on the nature of the violation. This legal categorization serves not only to deter potential offenders but also to provide clear consequences for those who exploit such technologies for malicious intent, thereby aiming to enhance personal privacy protections and combat potential abuse of power through misinformation.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2819 addresses the growing concern surrounding deceptive audio or visual media, often referred to as 'deepfakes'. This legislation seeks to prohibit the creation and disclosure of such materials under specific circumstances, particularly when they are used for unlawful purposes. A 'deepfake' is defined within the bill as any form of media that convincingly portrays a person speaking or conducting themselves in a manner they did not actually engage in, facilitated primarily through technological means. This legal framework aims to combat the malicious use of such technologies which can lead to various criminal activities including harassment and invasion of privacy.

Contention

A central point of contention surrounding A2819 is the balance between regulating harmful practices associated with deepfakes and protecting legitimate forms of expression and journalism. While the bill emphasizes accountability by permitting civil actions from individuals depicted in deceptive media, critics may argue about its implications for free speech and the responsibilities of news entities. The bill includes provisions that protect news agencies unless they knowingly distribute a deceptive work without proper disclosure, but concerns about overly broad applications of the law remain a topic for debate among legislators and advocacy groups. The interactions with federal protections for internet service providers under Section 230 further complicate the enforcement and implications of this legislation.