Elections: deceptive media in advertisements.

Assembly Members Pellerin and Berman's election integrity legislation addresses emerging concerns about artificial intelligence and deepfakes in campaign communications by establishing detailed requirements for disclosing manipulated content. The measure prohibits knowingly distributing materially deceptive election materials that misrepresent candidates, officials, or voting processes within 120 days of California elections.

The bill sets specific technical standards for disclosure statements, requiring visual media to use contrasting colors and minimum font sizes based on format - at least 4 percent of display height for videos, 14-point type for mailers, and proportional sizing for larger materials like billboards. Audio content must include verbal disclaimers at regular intervals. Communications qualify for exemption from these rules if they contain clear notices about AI-generated or altered content, or if a reasonable person would recognize them as satire or parody.

Under the enforcement provisions, individuals depicted in deceptive content may seek injunctive relief or damages from distributors, with prevailing parties eligible for attorney fees. The legislation exempts broadcasting stations and internet platforms that did not create the content, while establishing a "clear and convincing evidence" standard for proving violations. These protections apply to candidates for federal, state and local offices appearing on California ballots, as well as election officials and voting equipment portrayed in materially false ways.