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SB 816

AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- DECEPTIVE AND FRAUDULENT SYNTHETIC MEDIA IN ELECTION COMMUNICATIONS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island law requires election communications using synthetic media to be clearly labeled as fake, with penalties for deceptive deepfakes used to influence voters.

07/02/2025 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 816

Legislative bill overview

SB 816 prohibits the use of deceptive synthetic media (deepfakes) in election communications without clear disclosure. The law requires that manipulated audio, video, or images used to influence voters must be labeled as synthetic, and establishes penalties for violations. It became effective upon the Governor's signature in July 2025.

Why is this important

Deepfakes and synthetic media can spread false information about candidates or election processes at scale, potentially influencing voter behavior before people can verify authenticity. As synthetic media technology becomes more sophisticated and accessible, this legislation attempts to establish a baseline protection against election manipulation while the technology rapidly evolves. The law addresses a gap between existing election fraud statutes and emerging technological capabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Critics may argue that disclosure requirements or prohibitions on synthetic media content could infringe on political speech rights, particularly regarding satire, parody, or artistic expression
  • Definition and enforcement challenges: The bill's practical effectiveness depends on clearly defining what constitutes "deceptive" synthetic media versus permitted edited content, and how violations will be detected and proven in rapidly changing digital environments
  • Scope limitations: Questions remain about whether the law covers all relevant platforms, whether enforcement focuses on creators or distributors, and whether penalties are sufficient to deter well-funded actors

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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