Prohibits deepfake pornography and imposes criminal and civil penalties for non-consensual disclosure.
If enacted, S976 will amend existing laws concerning the invasion of privacy and the sexual exploitation of children. The bill aligns the penalties for the non-consensual disclosure of deepfake material with current laws governing 'revenge porn,' categorizing it as a third-degree crime, which could lead to three to five years of imprisonment and fines up to $15,000. For deepfakes involving children, the penalties escalate significantly, aligning with those for distributing or possessing child pornography, which could be classified as a first-degree crime, carrying severe penalties—10 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $200,000 if the number of items exceeds set thresholds.
Senate Bill S976, introduced in the New Jersey legislature, seeks to prohibit the creation and distribution of deepfake pornography, with strict penalties for non-consensual disclosure. The bill defines 'deepfake' as technologically manipulated audio or visual media that deceptively portrays individuals in a manner that does not reflect their actual behavior. Specifically, the legislation addresses concerns regarding the misuse of this technology, particularly when it involves individuals without their consent, which is becoming an alarming trend in the digital landscape. By tackling deepfake pornography, the bill aims to protect individuals from harassment and reputational harm.
The bill reflects a critical response to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its potential for abuse in media manipulation. Proponents assert that such legislation is essential to safeguard individual privacy rights in an age where technology can easily distort reality and harm reputations. However, there may be concerns regarding the broad application of the terms used in the bill, as critics could argue that the definitions of 'deepfake' and 'non-consensual disclosure' need further clarification to avoid unintended consequences. Additionally, debates may arise about the enforcement challenges in distinguishing between legitimate artistic expression and malicious deception.