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Bill Summary · SB 1156

Legislative bill overview

SB 1156 addresses the creation and distribution of deepfakes in Hawaii, likely establishing legal prohibitions or penalties for non-consensual synthetic media depicting individuals without their permission. The bill was introduced by Senator Mike Gabbard and Senator Joy San Buenaventura but was deferred by the Labor and Business and Tourism (LBT) committee and carried over to the 2026 legislative session without passage.

Why is this important

Deepfakes pose genuine risks to personal reputation, consent, and potential misuse in harassment, fraud, or election interference. Hawaii's consideration of this legislation reflects growing state-level concern about synthetic media technology outpacing existing legal protections. However, the bill's deferral suggests lawmakers are still deliberating how to regulate this technology without infringing on free speech or creating unworkable enforcement mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Free speech balance: Regulations on synthetic media creation must distinguish between harmful non-consensual deepfakes and protected parody, satire, or educational uses
  • Definitional clarity: Determining what qualifies as a "deepfake" versus legitimate video editing, filters, or CGI could prove legally complex
  • Enforcement challenges: Identifying creators and proving intent to harm or deceive across digital platforms raises practical implementation questions
  • Scope of penalties: Whether violations constitute criminal offenses, civil liability, or administrative penalties remains contested

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

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