SB2577 introduces criminal penalties for the wrongful dissemination of "digitizations," such as deepfakes. The law defines "digitization" as altering images or audio using AI or other technological means to depict individuals engaging in speech or conduct they did not actually perform. Disseminating such content with intent to cause harm, incite violence, or deter voting can lead to imprisonment for up to five years and fines up to $50,000.
The Mississippi State Senate passed SB2577 on April 26, 2024 by a vote of 35 to 13. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation undermines the fundamental right to free speech protected by the First Amendment. This opens the door to government overreach and potentially criminalizes certain forms of expression based on subjective interpretations of the law.
