HB4557

Illinois HB4557 establishes the Digital Forgeries in Politics Act, allowing candidates to sue for distribution of manipulated media.

HB4557, the Digital Forgeries in Politics Act, allows Illinois residents who are candidates for office to sue individuals who knowingly distribute manipulated media within 90 days before an election. The act defines "digital forgery" as any audio or visual material created or altered to falsely depict an individual's speech or conduct. It mandates disclaimers for manipulated media and allows courts to issue injunctions against distribution. Prevailing plaintiffs can seek economic and noneconomic damages, statutory damages, punitive damages, and litigation costs.