New Jersey Senate Bill S3551

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/12/24
• Refer: 9/12/24

Caption

Updates certain crimes to include nonconsensual pornographic deepfake threats and disclosure.

Impact

The proposed changes would establish that individuals who knowingly produce or share deepfake images without the depicted individual's consent may be committing crimes of various degrees. For example, the disclosure of such images could constitute a fourth-degree crime, punishable by imprisonment for up to 18 months and a fine of up to $10,000. Such measures are intended to enhance the legal framework protecting individuals against privacy invasions and emotional harm resulting from these highly realistic fraudulent depictions.

Summary

S3551 is a legislative bill introduced in New Jersey that amends existing laws concerning criminal offenses related to nonconsensual pornography and deepfakes. The bill specifically seeks to expand the definition of certain crimes to include the unauthorized disclosure of deepfake images, which are digitally manipulated likenesses that can create misleading portrayals of individuals. This update addresses a growing concern regarding the potential for misuse of advanced technology to harass or intimidate individuals through the creation and circulation of nonconsensual pornographic imagery.

Contention

The introduction of S3551 has the potential to spark debate around the balance between protecting individuals from harassment and ensuring freedom of expression and innovation in digital media. Opponents may raise concerns that the bill could inadvertently infringe upon legitimate expressive practices, while proponents assert that it is a necessary step toward safeguarding personal rights in the digital age. As deepfake technology becomes more accessible, the implications of such legislation will be pivotal in outlining lawful boundaries in technology's intersection with personal privacy.