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Bill

HB 3303

ELEC CD-DECEPTIVE MATERIAL

104th Regular Session Introduced by Marcus Evans

Illinois bill regulating deceptive electoral materials to enhance election integrity and voter protection through election code amendments.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3303

Legislative bill overview

HB 3303 addresses deceptive electoral materials in Illinois's election code. Based on the bill's title referencing "deceptive material," it likely aims to regulate, prohibit, or establish penalties for false or misleading content distributed during elections. The bill has been referred to the Ethics & Elections Committee, suggesting it focuses on maintaining electoral integrity.

Why is this important

Election integrity depends partly on voters receiving accurate information about candidates, ballot measures, and voting procedures. Deceptive materials—whether about voting locations, candidate positions, or eligibility requirements—can suppress turnout or distort electoral outcomes. Clear statutory definitions and enforcement mechanisms help protect democratic processes.

Potential points of contention

  • Free speech vs. regulation: Defining "deceptive material" precisely enough to survive First Amendment scrutiny while being broad enough to address genuine disinformation is challenging
  • Enforcement burden: Determining who investigates violations, how quickly they respond, and what penalties apply could be contentious, especially in high-volume election cycles
  • Scope ambiguity: Whether the bill covers social media, flyers, robocalls, advertisements equally, and whether it applies to political speech by campaigns themselves or only third parties

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

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